Suryakumar Yadav, the newly appointed captain of India for T20s has stressed in his recent address on the importance of having a positive mindset and fearless approach after his team won two consecutive matches against Sri Lanka.
The Indian side sealed the T20I series with a 43-run win on Saturday followed by a seven-wicket victory at Pallekele. In his post match comments, Suryakumar did not mince words about their future strategy and game plan for the shortest format.
“This is what we were talking about before the tournament started – what sort of cricket should be playing? This is what we are going forward with,” Said Suryakumar as quoted by PTI who remained usual brilliant with willow in both days.
The match was interrupted by an abrupt downpour that caused overs to be reduced. Consequently, they adjusted the target to 78 runs in 8 overs. This happened after another batting debacle from Sri Lanka. They had been well placed at 130 for 2 in 15 overs but they lost their way and finished on 161 for 9.
“Anything below 160 would have been good with the weather around; rain helped us. And boys batted exceptionally,” he said.
Thus, a question was asked whether there might be some changes in reserve players included into the team during this final match that does not matter much as such?
“We’ll sit and decide (when asked if they’ll test their bench strength). Very happy for boys. Showed a lot of character in tough situations.”
Ravi Bishnoi, India’s resident googly specialist for this shorter version format expressed delight over how successful he has been throughout his career as far as bowling wrong ‘uns is concerned.
“The pitch was little different than yesterday; it was turning a bit. Today it was helping spinners in first innings itself. I always stick to my plans.”
“I just love bowling the wrong ‘uns. It’s a good responsibility to have (bowling in the death), as it means the captain and the management trust me.”
Sri Lanka skipper Charith Asalanka has been disappointed with middle-order performances during crucial stages of games, which he has expressed publicly on several occasions.
“I’m really disappointed about how we batted in terms of death overs. We have to be really better. This wicket gets difficult when ball gets older. As professional cricketers we must do better.”
“We were behind by 15-18 runs. Weather also played its part. It’s not easy to bowl eight overs with a wet outfield,” Asalanka said.
