Kartik Yadav leads Ranji Trophy wicket tally with third consecutive five-wicket haul
The 20-year-old Uttar Pradesh left-arm spinner has taken 27 wickets in four matches during the current season.
Uttar Pradesh spinner Kartik Yadav has become the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Ranji Trophy campaign, according to The Times of India. The 20-year-old slow left-arm bowler took 5/104 against Baroda at Green Park on Tuesday, marking his third straight five-wicket haul.
Yadav has now recorded 27 wickets across four matches this season. His previous performances in the tournament include figures of 6/42 against Puducherry and 5/37 against Goa.
The player, who trains at TNM Academy under Ajay Sharma and Manan Sharma, said he models his game on Ravindra Jadeja. He expressed a desire to contribute to his team through batting, bowling, and fielding, while also noting an admiration for the mindset of Hardik Pandya.
Yadav recalled gaining confidence after being called as a net bowler during the India-Bangladesh Test match, where he dismissed Virat Kohli. The cricketer said that receiving praise from Kohli provided a significant boost.
Uttar Pradesh Ranji head coach Gyanendra Pandey praised the youngster's discipline and skill, noting that he is continuing the state's spin-bowling legacy. Yadav stated he is currently focused on his immediate performances rather than thinking about playing for India.