Suryakumar Yadav’s scorching half-century propelled India to a seven-wicket victory over the West Indies in the third T20 International of the five-match series on Tuesday in St Kitts. The right-handed batter, noted for his 360-degree batting approach, hit a fluent 76 off 44 pitches as the visiting squad won with one over to spare.
With consistent performances in all situations, the Indian has cemented his position in the 20-over format as the Rohit Sharma-led team prepares for this year’s World T20 in Australia.
While skipper Rohit Sharma was forced to withdraw in the second over owing to a back spasm, Yadav kept attacking and dominated an 86-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who struck 24. At Warner Park, the partnership essentially finished the battle, which was followed by Rishabh Pant’s undefeated 33.
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Yadav thwarted the opposition bowlers and provided a taste of India’s new offensive attitude in the format, restoring their advantage. Following the victory, the batter spoke with the spectators and signed autographs.
“Match-winning strike. Beautiful gesture. @surya 14kumar thanks the fans for their support following #TeamIndia’s third T20I victory!” the BCCI wrote
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Match-winning knock π
Heartwarming gesture βΊοΈ@surya_14kumar appreciates the support of the fans after #TeamIndia's win in the third T20I! π π#WIvIND pic.twitter.com/LYj9tNBVJH
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 3, 2022
Yadav discussed his batting strategy following Rohit’s early dismissal in the post-match presentation. “It was vital for someone to bat through to the 17th over when Rohit stepped inside, but I was still able to be myself and express myself,” he added.
“I enjoyed it since I had done it in the IPL (Indian Premier League). I simply backed myself up and enjoyed myself.”
After the game, India all-rounder Hardik Pandya showered praise on Yadav. “Surya is a superb athlete. When he starts playing…some of the shots he plays leave you speechless. He played a tremendous knock today, and it was not easy “Hardik stated this during the post-match presentation.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was India’s bowling selection, with a spell of 2/35 in four overs. West Indies scored 164/5 in 20 overs, owing to a brilliant half-century from Kyle Mayers, who hit 73 off 50 balls with eight fours and four sixes.
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