India’s Suryakumar Yadav addressed the media in a virtual press conference ahead of the second ODI against the West Indies. With the hosts already 1-0 up, Suryakumar detailed his team’s strategy to clinch the series in the upcoming encounter.
India gathered an easy win in the last match as the visiting nation failed to show resilience. Their batters went down like ninepins, while the bowlers could not defend the paltry total of 176 runs.
India lost three quick wickets in the chase but Suryakumar batted in calm demeanour to push his team towards a comfortable win. His crucial 34-run innings resulted in a journalist comparing him with legendary Aussie finisher Michael Bevan.
Suryakumar laughed at the comparison and stressed upon maintaining his unique identity. “Let me be Suryakumar Yadav right now. I have hardly played 5 to 7 matches for India,” Suryakumar Yadav said.
“But I keep on trying. Whichever position I bat at, I’ll try to win games for my team. I’ll try to do the same thing – express myself and be fearless as I’m always.
Suryakumar’s batting position to remain flexible
The 31-year-old binds India’s middle-order but is ready to bat at any position as per the requirements of the team.
“I am really flexible, wherever the team management wants me to bat, I am really flexible to bat at any position. Yes, I have batted at No.3, 4, and 5, really happy with the way things are going right now,” he added.
“Things were really clear, he (Hooda) has played a lot of domestic cricket, so he knew the situation really well. We were having little conversations and setting little goals (in our partnership). His confidence was spot on though,” Suryakumar shared details of his partnership with debutant Hooda.
The ongoing series will continue at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad with India aiming to clinch the trophy in the second ODI. On the other hand, the West Indies will be eyeing a comeback after suffering a drubbing at the hands of Rohit and Co. in the previous game.