Former India captain and legendary batter, Virender Sehwag was impressed with Suryakumar Yadav's mature knock against Australia in the first ODI in Mohali. Sehwag lauded the explosive Indian batter for his level-headed half-century knock against the Baggy Greens. The ex-Indian opener affirmed that Suryakumar is 'surely an x-factor' for the Men in Blue and has the ability to 'create fear in the minds' of the opposition.
"Happy for @surya_14kumar. He is surely an ex-factor. Not many players have the ability to play in the gear that he can and he surely has the game to create fear in the minds of opposition. Great that we have persisted with him and he will be an asset. Congratulations Bharat," Sehwag wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
The world's top-ranked T20I batter, Suryakumar silenced his critics with a brilliant fifty, scoring 50 runs off 49 balls with the help of five fours and a six. This commanding innings was his first ODI half-century since February 2022, especially significant after facing criticism for three consecutive golden ducks against the Aussies.
Suryakumar began several innings with potential, but translating these starts into substantial scores had been challenging recently. Despite unwavering faith from the team management, his form in ODIs raised eyebrows. A particular low was his dismissal during the Asia Cup clash against Shakib Al Hasan, where his sweep shot highlighted his dwindling confidence.
However, the Mohali showdown witnessed a reinvigorated Suryakumar. Abandoning the sweep, he took on Australia's bowlers with confidence and grace. Following a brief stutter in India's batting after a promising start by openers Gill and Gaikwad, Suryakumar stepped in. Partnering with stand-in captain KL Rahul, he not only steadied the ship but took India to a commanding position.
Initially playing with caution, Yadav's innings blossomed, showcasing a series of elegant straight drives, underlining his top-tier batting prowess. The pivotal 95-run partnership with Rahul paved the way for India's victory, sealing the match with five wickets and 8 balls remaining. This knock not only secured a series lead for India but also reinstated Suryakumar Yadav's status as a premier batsman in the international arena.
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