(AP Photo)
Team India secured a commanding 47-run victory over Afghanistan in their ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8 clash at Kensington Oval, Barbados, on Thursday.
India posted a total of 181 runs with the loss of 8 wickets, propelled by Suryakumar Yadav’s impressive half-century. They then dismissed Afghanistan for 134 runs, supported by three-wicket hauls from Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh.
Suryakumar Yadav, recognized as the Player of the Match, attributed his success to meticulous preparation and routines that help him approach each game with a focused mindset.
“I think there’s a lot of hardwork, there are a lot of processes and routine involved in it,’ he began.
“I am clear in my mind what I want to do,” he asserted.
Suryakumar Yadav made history as the first Indian batsman to claim the Man of the Match award in the current ICC tournament, which has predominantly featured exceptional bowling performances.
He expressed no concern over the accolades the bowlers have garnered during the T20 spectacle.
“I don’t mind giving this Player of the Match to a bowler. First time it’s going to a batter (from India in this tournament), I don’t mind. I think you just need to know your game plan, and just play accordingly.
Suryakumar Yadav forged a vital partnership of 60 runs with Hardik Pandya during the pivotal middle overs, stabilizing the Indian innings. He disclosed details of the discussion he shared with the prominent all-rounder during their time at the crease together.
“I still remember when Hardik came in to the bat, I told him let’s bat with the same intent. Let’s keep pressing the pedal and keep pushing,” Suryakumar elaborated.
In conclusion, he expressed satisfaction with the batting display and praised the team’s capability to set a formidable total, which ultimately proved ample as the bowling squad once again delivered a stellar performance.
“In the end very happy with a score of 180,” he added.
India is scheduled to face Bangladesh in their next Super 8 match on Saturday, followed by a showdown against Australia on Monday.
