Suryakumar Yadav scored a crucial fifty in the opening ODI against Australia on September 22, reigniting discussions about his role in the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup. The Mumbai-born batsman’s knock, which came after a 590-day drought in ODI cricket, caught the attention of cricket legends and fans alike.
Yadav’s 51-run innings was well-timed, coming just two weeks before India began its World Cup campaign. Previously, he had struggled in ODIs, averaging around 12 despite his consistent performances in T20 cricket.
The decision to give him a continuation in the team this year was a bold move, prompted by an injury to Shreyas Iyer. India coach Rahul Dravid and skipper Rohit Sharma stood firmly behind Yadav, encouraging his transition from T20 specialist to ODI player.
While his fifty was crucial in India’s chase of 276 against Australia, and securing victory by eight balls to spare, it also ignited debate over his placement in the World Cup squad. Cricket legend Gautam Gambhir commented on the situation. He stated that if Yadav is considered the number one player in this mega event, it is better for him to finish seventh. However, Gambhir warned that such a move would be risky, necessitating Ravindra Jadeja to bat at number five, thus increasing the pressure on the top four batsmen.
“When you go for a World Cup, you generally have a fixed line-up of players. You don’t cut or change. Remember the 2011 World Cup, we made almost no changes. Yusuf Pathan played 5-6 matches initially and then he came in,” Gambhir told Star Sports. Suresh Raina.”
“If Suryakumar Yadav is in your first match in the playing XI, I want him to bat at number 6-7, but then the big question will be who will bat at number five. Then Jadeja can bat at number five, Hardik at number six, and He added that Suryakumar is the ultimate player as he can bat in the last 15-20 matches.
“But, it would be a big gamble to decide whether you want Jadeja at number five and Suryakumar, in the form he is in ODI cricket, at number seven. That would put a lot of responsibility on the top four,” he said.
“Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp channels 🚀 Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay up to date with the latest financial ideas!” click here!
Get all the sports news and updates on Live Mint. Download the Mint News app for daily market updates and live business news.
More less
Updated: Sep 24, 2023, 12:45 PM IST
