Kuldeep Yadav discusses his friendship with Shane Warne. Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist spinner, has always had a unique bond with Shane Warne, who has been seen talking to the 28-year-old on many occasions. Thus, Warne’s untimely death shocked the Indian spinner, and he has revealed the nature of his relationship with the late great Australian spin wizard.
Kuldeep stated that hearing the news of Warne’s death in March 2022 made him feel as if he had lost someone close to him.
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Yadav revealed that he spoke with Warne just 10 days before his death
“I was shocked to learn of his death. I actually sobbed. Couldn’t figure it out. It felt as if someone close to me had died. I was always in contact with him. “I spoke with him 10 days before he died,” Kuldeep stated in the second episode of the most recent season of Breakfast with Champions on YouTube.
Notably, prior to Kuldeep’s first Sydney Test in 2019, Warne would meet with him every day before the first session to urge him to perform well. Eventually, the Kanpur-born batsman took a remarkable five-for in the match and dedicated it to Warne, who became tearful following Kuldeep’s wonderful gesture.
Meanwhile, Kuldeep discussed the role Warne played in his development as a cricketer. The spinner further stated that Warne constantly inspired him and told him to be happy on the field since that was all that ultimately mattered to him.
“Sometimes, I used to feel proud that I had seen him (Shane Warne) on TV. And then, I became his friend. I got to learn from him at the same time. And I want to do what he has done. He helped me a lot during the Australia tour. I was a little nervous before the match. I used to meet him in the morning. He came to me and said, ‘I don’t know what you are going to bowl, but I want you to be happy on the ground. I will be watching you from the pavilion. It doesn’t matter how you bowl. Just do it with a smile.
“I remembered this.” On the ground, I was doing the same thing. In that game, I didn’t feel any pressure. And I dedicated my five wicket haul to him. He was overcome with emotion. He couldn’t believe his eyes. So he has had a significant impact on my life,” Kuldeep added.
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