(BCCI Photo)
India is set to play up to 10 Tests in the coming months, including series against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and a tour of Australia. With Gautam Gambhir taking over as coach, the red-ball matches leading up to the international season are gaining importance. While some players are guaranteed spots due to their track records, others have a chance to make a case for themselves.
Among these contenders is Suryakumar Yadav, a T20I star known for his dynamic and unconventional approach. After making a brief Test debut against Australia, where he scored eight runs in his only innings, Yadav is eager to return to the Test side. By participating in the ongoing Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament and the Duleep Trophy 2024, he aims to impress selectors and secure a spot in the Test squad.
Despite gaining fame in the IPL and T20Is, Suryakumar Yadav emphasizes that his primary goal has always been to excel in red-ball cricket.“The love for red-ball cricket has always been there,” the 33-year-old was quoted as saying by The Times of India. “Though I made my debut for India in the shorter formats first, I have always enjoyed playing this format. Red-ball cricket has always been the first priority. There is no question about it and that is why I am here ahead of the Duleep Trophy.”
Suryakumar understands that adapting his natural instincts will be crucial for long-term success in red-ball cricket. He’s fully aware of this challenge and brings significant experience to the table. With 82 first-class matches under his belt, Suryakumar has accumulated 5,628 runs at an average of 43.62, including 14 centuries and 29 half-centuries.
“This format is a little challenging,” Suryakumar said. “You have to be one step ahead. You cannot bat like you do in a T20I match. But at the same time, intent is very important, including the body language you carry on to the ground. The thinking part of what needs to be done has to be done during the practice sessions. You cannot go to the game and think too much.”
“What is in your control are the practice sessions and what you do until the start of the game. If you do well, stay humble. If you do not do well, go back to the basics and drawing board, start and come back again,” he added.
