WATCH: Kuldeep Yadav Playfully Slaps Rinku Singh in Post-Match Banter at IPL Clash
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, Delhi Capitals (DC) left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav was caught on camera playfully slapping Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Rinku Singh after a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. This light-hearted moment, reflecting the bond between players from Uttar Pradesh, quickly went viral on social media, showcasing the spirit of cricket beyond the fierce on-field rivalries.
The incident unfolded post-match during the customary player interactions, where teammates and opponents exchange handshakes and words of encouragement. Kuldeep and Rinku, hailing from the same state, shared a friendly exchange that culminated in Kuldeep’s playful gesture, drawing smiles and laughter from those around. Such moments remind fans that behind the intense competition, there lies a deep sense of brotherhood and respect among players.
Turning to the match itself, it was a nail-biter as KKR clinched a 14-run victory over DC, keeping their playoff hopes alive in the IPL 2023 season. Batting first after being invited to set a target, KKR posted a formidable 204 for 9, powered by a collective effort from their batting unit. Youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi played a crucial knock of 44 runs, while Rinku Singh contributed a vital 36 runs. The duo stitched together a significant 61-run partnership off 46 balls, with Rinku particularly aggressive against Kuldeep, smashing two boundaries and a six in a single over that yielded 17 runs, pushing KKR past the 150-mark.
However, KKR faced a brief setback as both Raghuvanshi and Rinku fell in quick succession, halting their momentum. It was the explosive Andre Russell who provided the late surge, hammering two fours and a six to ensure KKR crossed the 200-run barrier. The final over saw drama as DC’s Mitchell Starc (3/43) struck twice, but it wasn’t enough to stop KKR from setting a daunting total. DC spinners Axar Patel (2/27) and Vipraj Nigam (2/41) also chipped in with crucial wickets.
In response, DC fought valiantly but fell short at 190 for 9. Despite a valiant effort from Faf du Plessis (62), supported by Axar Patel with 43 runs and Vipraj Nigam with 38 runs, KKR’s bowling attack, led by the enigmatic Sunil Narine (3/29), held their nerve to restrict DC. With this win, the defending champions KKR, despite remaining in seventh place with 9 points, reignited their playoff aspirations, while DC maintained their spot in the top four with 12 points.
Beyond the runs and wickets, it’s moments like the playful interaction between Kuldeep and Rinku that capture the essence of the IPL—a blend of fierce competition and heartfelt camaraderie. As the tournament progresses, fans will undoubtedly keep an eye on such off-field bonds as much as the on-field battles, making the IPL 2023 a spectacle in every sense of the word.