Suryakumar Yadav was without a doubt the hero in India's 91-run thumping of Sri Lanka at Rajkot to win the T20I series 2-1. His brash 112 not out off just 51 balls thrilled the crowd on Saturday night.
Hardik Pandya, the captain of India, was also in awe of Suryakumar's ability to alter the course of the game and his 360-degree strokes. Pandya claimed that the right-bat hander's display genuinely kills the spirit of the bowlers while assisting the Indian batters.
"It appeared to be Sri Lanka playing Surya. Because it makes my life so simple, I've always stressed how crucial players like Surya are to our success in white-ball cricket. The way he alters the game and executes certain strokes actually lowers the bowler's spirits, which benefits the other batters as well "explained Hardik during the press conference following the game.
The 112 not out at Rajkot was a trademark Suryakumar innings laced with inside-out drives, scoops and supple wrists to slam the Sri Lankan bowlers for seven fours and nine sixes all around the stadium. It was also his third T20I century in 43 innings. Hardik revealed one doesn't necessarily have to speak to Suryakumar ahead of a match.
"You don't tell him. See, the kind form Surya's been playing in, the kind of clarity he has, you don't have to go and speak to him. He's always very clear about his plans, And that's the reason he's successful in this format. He doesn't doubt his ability."
"Whenever he's in double mind, he always comes (to me) and we have a chat. It's just about giving that little bit of clarity. But more often than not, I don't need to speak to him. It's just about to go out there and just enjoy, which he does. I don't think anyone has to say anything to him."
When Rahul Tripathi launched an early counterattack with his 35 off only 16 balls, smashing five fours and two sixes, guaranteeing India was 53/2 at the end of the power-play, Hardik was quick to recognise him.
"Everyone is aware of what Surya done, but Rahul Tripathi deserves special recognition as well. His level of intent, which comes so naturally to him, has the power to alter the course of a situation."
"If you see the first couple of overs, the ball was doing something, and people outside, even the next batter, they all thought there was something in the wicket. But because of his intent, the bowlers changed their length and all of a sudden the ball stopped moving. Then it was like they (Sri Lanka) were chasing the game."