Kuldeep Yadav shuts down troll for abusive comment on 2023 World Cup final defeat: 'Are money or enmity at play?'

A year after India's heart-wrenching loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, Kuldeep Yadav, the star spinner, once again found himself under the glaring spotlight. On November 19, 2024, the anniversary of the defeat, Kuldeep used his platform on social media to address a particularly harsh and abusive post aimed at him for India's loss in the final. Despite his crucial role in India's unbeaten journey through the group stages and knockouts, Kuldeep faced severe backlash for his performance in the title clash.

The conversation surrounding India's World Cup campaign reignited as fans reflected on what could have been a fairy-tale victory at home. India entered the final in Ahmedabad as clear favorites, having won 10 consecutive matches in the tournament. However, their dreams were shattered in a one-sided contest against Australia, who chased down a modest 241-run target with six wickets in hand.

Kuldeep, who had been a standout performer throughout the tournament, endured a rare off day in the final. The left-arm wrist-spinner went wicketless in his 10 overs, conceding 56 runs. Despite his consistency during the tournament, his performance in the final drew flak, with some singling him out for India’s loss.

Unable to hold back, Kuldeep hit back at one particularly abusive comment. The post questioned his performance and wondered why no one had singled out the leg-spinner's figures in their criticism of the side in the final — an allegation the player found offensive.

“Hanji kis cheez ki dikkat hai apko , itna pyara likhne ke liye paise mile ya koi Jati dus mani hai (Yes, so, what's bothering you so much? Did you get money to write such beautiful words, or do you have a personal hatred for me?),” Kuldeep wrote.

India’s World Cup campaign had been nearly flawless until the final. The Rohit Sharma-led side was widely praised for their dominance across all departments, with Kuldeep playing a pivotal role in the bowling attack. His ability to pick wickets in crucial moments helped India maintain their unbeaten streak and reach the final as firm favorites.