Suryakumar Yadav, the world’s number one ranked T20 batsman, has displayed remarkable adaptability during the ongoing World Cup. While the “spicy” wickets of New York forced him to curb his usual flamboyant style, he’s eager to unleash his natural strokeplay on the more batting-friendly pitches of the Caribbean.
India’s Super 8 campaign kicks off on Thursday against Afghanistan, followed by encounters with Bangladesh and Australia in St. Lucia – a venue that has already hosted the tournament’s highest total. In New York, Yadav’s trademark big-hitting was restricted. His unbeaten 50 against the USA came off a cautious 49 deliveries, a stark contrast to his blistering average strike rate of 168.06.
“Being number one for two years means being able to adapt to different conditions and play for the team’s needs. That’s true batsmanship,” Suryakumar Yadav declared during a press interaction. “Difficult wickets and bowlers reading your game force you to be smart and extend your innings. You need to change gears based on the situation and your partner’s needs.”
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While New York presented challenges, Suryakumar Yadav is confident in his ability to showcase his full repertoire in the Caribbean. “We were happy playing in the US, but it was undeniably different and demanding. We know these conditions better, having played here before,” he explained.
The distinct brownish Kensington Oval pitch, familiar to the Indian team from their previous tour, is a welcome change from the “spicy” wickets encountered earlier.
‘If you are number one, you should…’
Suryakumar Yadav on batting in different conditions
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“The practice pitches there (USA) were fresh and challenging. Here, the pitches are regularly prepared and much better,” he elaborated. The Caribbean has seen spinners flourish, but Suryakumar Yadav remains unfazed. “Sweeps and reverse sweeps are my strengths, and I’ve focused on playing the same way I do in practice.”
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India’s strategic move to open with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, with Rishabh Pant promoted to number three, raises a question: how will Yadav adapt if early wickets fall? “We haven’t faced that scenario yet,” Yadav clarified. “The format demands scoring runs even with early wickets. We believe in positivity, and the management trusts the players to make decisions in those situations.”
The Caribbean pitches are a chance for Suryakumar Yadav to transform from a caged tiger, forced to play cautiously, into a free spirit unleashing his full potential. With his adaptability and unwavering belief in his game, Yadav is poised to be a crucial force for Team India in the Super Eights.
