Pant showing glimpses of MS Dhoni: Kuldeep

Delhi Capitals spinner Kuldeep Yadav credited captain Rishabh Pant, head coach Ricky Ponting and assistant coach Shane Watson for his new found freedom of expression in IPL 2022. 

Speaking about Pant's leadership qualities, Kuldeep said that the 24-year old is showing qualities of former Indian captain MS Dhoni.

"I feel Rishabh is showing a few glimpses of MS Dhoni's characteristics behind the stumps. He guides well and stays calm on the field," he said during the fourth episode of The DC Podcast.

"Wicketkeepers play a big role in the success of spinners. The credit for my performance in this IPL goes to Rishabh as well. We have a good understanding now."

Kuldeep, who suffered two fruitless seasons at Kolkata Knight Riders, made a switch to DC this season and has claimed 13 wickets from seven matches at an average of 17.5.

"When you are given the freedom to express yourself then you start to enjoy everything," he said.

"When I spoke to Ricky during my first practice session with the team, he told me that I am bowling very well and that he's looking to play me for all 14 league matches. That conversation with him motivated me a lot."

Kuldeep also spoke about his experience working with assistant coach Shane Watson on the mental aspect of his game.

"Shane Watson has also helped me a lot. I am very lucky to have worked with Watson for three-four sessions. He has particularly helped me with the mental aspect of the game," the left armer said.

The left-arm spinner had openly spoken about his confidence issues after being shunted to the sidelines by the national selectors and KKR management.

"I have shared a lot of things with him about what I have been through before joining this team. I speak openly with him," Kuldeep said.

DC will take on KKR on April 28 in the return leg fixture at the Wankhede Stadium.