Suryakumar Yadav said he was satisfied with the Indian cricket team’s performance in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against Australia, which ended 4-1. The series came just days after India’s heartbreaking defeat at home to the same opponents (albeit in a different format) in the Cricket World Cup final.
While the Australia series saw the absence of many big names from the team, the series against South Africa will be a real test of their skills, especially in light of the difficult conditions available.
“The defeat in the World Cup was disappointing, and it is difficult to get over it. But the win against Australia was a big boost even though it came in a different format,” he added, telling reporters a day before the first T20I against South Africa.
Going into the World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad against Australia as favorites, having not lost a match in the group or knockout stages, India lost to Australia by six wickets in an agonizing defeat. But they bounced back with a 4-1 win over Australia in the T20 format.
“The players raised their hands against Australia and came out with gutsy cricket, and we need to play the same way against South Africa. I have asked them (the players) to do exactly what they do in cricket.
Suryakumar captains the side in the absence of injured Hardik Pandya for the three-match T20I series.
“I enjoy him (team captain).” It’s all about keeping the players together and this is a great group of players.
The series will be very important for India, especially the T20 series, considering that the T20 World Cup is coming up in June.
Before the first match, he preferred to keep his cards close to his chest regarding team lineups.
“We have that combination in mind. We know who opens tomorrow and will probably get the final call after today’s training session. Yes, we have enough sixth man options in this side to rely on.