(AP Photo)
Star Indian batsman Suryakumar Yadav expressed deep admiration for Indian captain Rohit Sharma after the Men in Blue secured their second T20 World Cup title, ending a 17-year wait. Suryakumar, aged 33, played a crucial role in India’s thrilling victory in the final held in Barbados on Saturday (June 29), notably taking a crucial catch off the first ball of the 20th over to contribute significantly to the win.
Suryakumar shared insights from Rohit Sharma’s pre-final team huddle, highlighting Rohit’s straightforward advice to keep things uncomplicated. He emphasized that Rohit connects profoundly with the players, instilling confidence that he supports them fully. This assurance motivates everyone to strive for excellence on his behalf.
“Before the final, he told us to keep it simple but said, ‘I can’t climb this mountain alone. If I have to reach the peak, I will need everyone’s oxygen’. He also said, ‘Joh bhi hai, paon mein, dimag mein, dil mein (whatever you have in your legs, mind, and heart), just bring everything to the game. If that happens, we will not regret the night’. We all were moved,” Suryakumar was quoted as saying by Indian Express.
“I have played so much cricket, be it in the IPL or international cricket, in the past four-five years. He connects with the players. Off the field, be it in a hotel room or on the beach, he connects with everyone. So when a crunch situation comes, players know that he (Rohit) will back us. One feels I have to deliver for this man for the confidence and respect he gives to everyone,” he added.
In the T20 World Cup 2024, Suryakumar Yadav showcased his batting prowess with two half-centuries across eight matches, yet his performance in the final was limited. Batting at No. 4 in the crucial match, he managed just three runs off four deliveries before being dismissed by Kagiso Rabada.
Despite his modest contribution with the bat in the title decider, the seasoned cricketer ensured his impact was felt during India’s triumphant moment. In the final over, when South Africa required 16 runs for victory, Suryakumar Yadav displayed his fielding prowess by taking two crucial catches, securing his place in India’s memorable win.
