Cricket

T20 World Cup Hero Kuldeep Yadav Meets Uttar Pradesh Chief MinisterIndian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav, a key member of the T20 World Cup-winning team, paid a courtesy visit to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow on Monday. The meeting was a testament to Yadav's remarkable achievement and the pride he brought to his home state.Yadav, a wrist-spinner from Kanpur, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received upon his return to India. He described the World Cup triumph as an "unreal experience" and expressed his hope to continue contributing to such successes in the future.The Indian team's victory over South Africa in the final on June 29 marked the country's second T20 World Cup title. Yadav played a crucial role in the tournament, scalping 10 wickets and showcasing his exceptional bowling skills.Upon his arrival in Kanpur, Yadav was greeted by hundreds of enthusiastic fans who arranged fireworks, dhols, and music in his honor. The grand reception reflected the immense admiration and support he enjoys in his hometown.In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Yadav opened up about his personal life, revealing that he plans to marry soon but not to a Bollywood actress. He emphasized the importance of finding a partner who can care for him and his family.Yadav's meeting with Chief Minister Adityanath and the warm reception he received from his fans are a testament to his remarkable achievement and the pride he has brought to Uttar Pradesh. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and a reminder of the power of hard work and dedication.

Karnataka's batting lineup showcased resilience and determination on the opening day of the Col. C.K. Nayudu (U-23) Trophy final against Uttar Pradesh, amassing a formidable 325 runs for the loss of five wickets at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.Middle-order batsman Yashovardhan Parantap emerged as the star performer, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 84 runs off 111 deliveries, studded with 12 boundaries. His crucial partnership with Kruthik Krishna (58 not out off 103 balls, 5 fours) for the sixth wicket, worth an unbroken 131 runs, propelled Karnataka to a commanding position.The home team's innings got off to a solid start as openers MacNeil H. Noronha (68 off 135 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes) and Prakar Chaturvedi (33 off 69 balls, 4 fours) put on a 68-run stand. Noronha continued his impressive form, adding 73 runs with K.V. Aneesh (43 off 76 balls, 3 fours).However, a middle-order collapse saw Karnataka lose three wickets for just 21 runs, including that of captain R. Smaran. The hosts were in danger of losing momentum, but Parantap and Krishna stepped up to the plate.Parantap, known for his solid technique and ability to play long innings, held the innings together with his composed batting. He found an able ally in Krishna, who played a patient and supportive role. The duo rotated the strike effectively, punished loose deliveries, and gradually rebuilt Karnataka's innings.As the day drew to a close, Karnataka had established a strong foundation for the remainder of the match. With Parantap and Krishna still at the crease and the lower order yet to come, the home team will be confident of posting a challenging total.