TATA IPL 2024: 'I needed to play till the end', Sky says after Game-Winning Century
Suryakumar Yadav expressed that adapting his batting approach was essential, opting for conventional strokes initially before showcasing his signature 360-degree batting style. His contribution led Mumbai Indians (MI) to a commanding seven-wicket triumph over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 fixture held at the Wankhede Stadium.
Suryakumar Yadav showcased an exceptional performance, scoring an unbeaten 102 off 51 balls and forming a formidable 143-run partnership with Tilak Varma, who contributed 37 runs off 32 balls. This impressive display propelled Mumbai Indians (MI) to a total of 174/3 in just 17.2 overs. Earlier, skipper Hardik Pandya's bowling figures of 3-31, combined with Piyush Chawla's effective bowling, limited Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to 173/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a shaky start for Mumbai at 31/3, with Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, and Naman Dhir departing early, Suryakumar adopted a cautious approach initially, eventually unleashing an array of sensational shots to steer the hosts to a memorable victory.
"I feel it was the need of the hour for me to win. Three wickets were down and I needed to play till the end. Knew that dew was heavy and I had to bat till the seam came off. Traditional shots came from the Mumbai School of Arts", said Suryakumar, who was adjudged Player of the Match for his mesmerizing knock.
About unleashing the shots towards the end of the innings, SKY said he waited for the seam to go off the ball and the dew to take its full effect before going after the bowling. "I knew what to do when the ball was seaming and then brought out all the shots that I practiced. I feel the intent would've been the same. As overs would've passed it'd been easier, and I'd have gone big but like how I did today", he said.
Despite displaying signs of discomfort, including limping and grimacing, the renowned T20 batsman attributed it solely to fatigue, having spent an extended period on the field. Suryakumar Yadav had been sidelined for the initial matches of the IPL season due to an injury sustained during the South Africa series in December 2023. Subsequently, he underwent surgery for a sports hernia in Germany. "I've been doing this after a very long time. After 14th December this is the first time I fielded for 20 overs and batted for 18. I was only feeling tired. But I'm alright", said Suryakumar.
Indian cricket enthusiasts will fervently hope for Suryakumar Yadav to maintain his exceptional form in the upcoming months, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon immediately after the IPL. His performance will be pivotal for India's success in the tournament, and his contribution will be crucial if India aims to emerge victorious in the mega event.
