‘It’s awkward to receive Player of the Match award, seeing the way Virat Kohli batted’ – Kuldeep Yadav after 1st ODI vs West Indies

Kuldeep Yadav, who took 4/40 on his ODI comeback, felt Virat Kohli's 139* deserved the award more.

By Adreej Kumar Mitra · Cric Tracker

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 5:17 AM

Key Things to Know

India defeated the West Indies by eight wickets, chasing 296 to finish on 300 for two in 41.4 overs.
Kuldeep Yadav took four wickets for 40 runs in 10 overs on his ODI comeback.
Kuldeep stated it felt awkward receiving Player of the Match over Virat Kohli, who scored 139 not out off 88 balls.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Kuldeep Yadav admitted it felt awkward to receive the Player of the Match award following India's eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in the first ODI on Sunday, September 27, 2026. India chased down the West Indies' total of 295 for seven by reaching 300 for two in 41.4 overs at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

Kuldeep claimed four wickets for 40 runs across 10 overs on his return to ODI cricket, dismissing John Campbell, Shai Hope, Justin Greaves, and Jewel Andrew. However, the spinner stated that Virat Kohli's unbeaten 139 off 88 balls deserved the award more, while noting that the bowling performance restored his rhythm and confidence.

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