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Manjrekar: Suryakumar Yadav should prioritize defense

August 29, 2023

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Manjrekar: Suryakumar Yadav should prioritize defense

In preparation for the upcoming Asia Cup, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has offered valuable advice to middle-order batsman Suryakumar Yadav. Manjrekar underscores the significance of honing Yadav’s defensive skills, especially when the team faces the challenge of being two or three wickets down during a match.

Despite Yadav’s status as the top-ranked T20I batter, his performance in ODIs has presented room for improvement, with an average of 24.33 and a strike rate of 101.38 across 26 matches. Yadav’s recent ODI scores against the West Indies include 19, 24, and 35. However, he encountered a tough phase earlier, suffering three consecutive first-ball ducks against Australia at home in March. Despite these challenges, Yadav remains a part of India’s 17-man squad for the Asia Cup, alongside players like KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer.

Manjrekar highlights Yadav’s commitment to his cricket and points out an area of concern. He suggests that should Yadav find himself in a situation where the team has lost a couple of wickets, he should shift his focus towards enhancing his defensive techniques. In the context of 50-overs cricket, Manjrekar believes that solid defensive tactics can prove beneficial for a batsman, especially when building an inning becomes a priority.

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Manjrekar also advocates for Yadav to refine his ground-hitting shots. He draws attention to Virat Kohli’s dedication to practicing singles during training sessions, emphasizing that a significant portion of runs in the 50-overs format originates from singles, doubles, and triples. Unlike the more explosive T20 format, where fours and sixes are prevalent, the longer format places importance on a batsman’s ability to navigate singles effectively. Manjrekar believes that Yadav possesses the potential to adapt and succeed in this aspect.

Yadav’s style of play in IPL and T20 cricket is noteworthy. He maintains an impressive strike rate of 200 and has a tendency to score more fours than sixes. His preference for grounded shots and boundaries showcases his ability to strategically hit the ball along the ground. Manjrekar acknowledges Yadav’s strengths and asserts that with the right confidence and belief, he can excel in the 50-overs format as well.

Looking ahead, India’s Asia Cup journey commences with a match against traditional rivals Pakistan on September 2, followed by a clash with Nepal on September 4. Both Group A matches are scheduled to be held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The top two teams from both Group A and B will advance to the Super Fours stage, competing in three more matches at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The final is set to take place on September 17 at the same venue.