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India and Pakistan will take on each other in the much-awaited T20 World Cup clash on October 24. Ahead of the clash between arch-rivals, there has been plenty analysis and match-ups. On Aajtak’s ‘Salaam Cricket’ conclave in Dubai, former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram termed Suryakumar Yadav as the “game-changer” for India in the mega event.
Akram said that he has been keeping a close eye on the T20 specialist and explained how he can change the game in the middle overs where India has been lacking in the format.
“I think Suryakumar Yadav can change the game in middle overs. This player will completely change the game for India. I have seen his strokeplay. He was with me in KKR as well. Now he has improved as a cricketer and bats incredibly,” the 55-year-old said.
The legendary left-arm pacer of Pakistan said this in response to while adding to the point former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar made when asked about chinks in the armour of Indian team.
While the Mumbai Indians (MI) batter is known for his unorthodox hitting, Akram felt that “he plays safe shots” and should not hold back in the World Cup.
“He plays safe shots and does it continuously. He should continue to play like he has been doing for the past 1-2 years,” the former bowling all-rounder added.
Surya made his mark
Ever since Surya joined the Mumbai franchise, it has had a major impact on his game. In 2018, when he played for the first time for MI, he scored 512 runs from 14 matches. In the following season, he played 16 matches and scored 424 runs. His performance remained consistent in 2020 as well, scoring 480 runs in 16 matches. However, he suffered a little slump in 2021 managing 317 runs from 14 appearances. However, his past performances earned him a national call against England earlier this year. Since his debut, Surya has played 4 T20I and scored 139 runs with a strike rate of 169.51 and an average of 46.33.
