Kuldeep Yadav Stuns Shai Hope with a 'Shane Warne-like' Delivery in Ahmedabad Test

Kuldeep Yadav made a spectacular return to Test cricket in Ahmedabad, producing a delivery so magical against West Indies’ Shai Hope that fans compared it to Shane Warne’s legendary ball of the century. The left-arm wrist spinner, coming back after nearly a year away from Test action, left Hope completely bamboozled on Day 1.

The Magical Delivery

It happened in the 24th over of the innings when Kuldeep tossed up a ball outside the off-stump. Hope, expecting a conventional turn, leaned forward to drive. Instead, the ball gripped sharply, veered away, and brushed the inside edge before crashing into the stumps. Hope, stunned by the dismissal, barely realized what had happened as his off-stump was rattled. The video of this wicket quickly went viral on social media, drawing comparisons with Shane Warne’s most iconic dismissals.

Kuldeep’s Test Comeback After 347 Days

This was Kuldeep’s first Test appearance since October 2024. Despite being included in the squad for the England tour earlier this year, he sat out all five matches. The spinner, however, bounced back strongly in the Asia Cup, where he was named the tournament’s best bowler with 17 wickets. His return to the Test XI has already made a strong impact, signaling his resurgence at the international stage.

West Indies Struggle Against India

West Indies’ decision to bat first after winning the toss backfired massively. By lunch, they had lost five wickets for just 90 runs, with Hope’s dismissal standing out as a big blow. Captain Roston Chase was gone soon after at 105, leaving the Caribbean side in deep trouble.

Kuldeep’s memorable ball not only reminded fans of Warne’s genius but also reinforced India’s dominance as the West Indies batting line-up continued to crumble.