Suryakumar Yadav has entered the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, having established himself as one of India’s leading batters in the shortest format of the game.
In 34 T20Is, the right-hander has amassed 1045 runs at an average of 38.70 and a strike rate of 176.81, including one hundred and nine half-centuries.
No wonder, Suryakumar is considered a vital cog in India’s wheel at the T20 World Cup 2022, where the Men in Blue will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at MCG on Sunday (October 23).
On the eve of the match, however, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam said they don’t only have plans for Suryakumar Yadav but all the Indian batters.
"We have plans for each player, not just Surya. We have a plan and hopefully we can execute them properly," Babar told reporters on Saturday (October 22).
Ahead of the match, the Men in Green heaved a sigh of relief as batter Shan Masood recovered from his head injury. He copped a blow on his head by a shot from Mohammad Nawaz during a practice session some days back.
"Shan Masood has recovered. He has cleared all the tests. Pitch was covered for two days but we know at the back of the mind what our XI would be," the captain said while informing that Fakhar Zaman is still nursing an injury and will be unavailable for the game.
Babar Azam further said his team is ready in case inclement weather leads to a rain-curtailed game.
"Whatever be the duration of the match, we are ready. But for the fans, it would be great if we have a full match," he said.
The Pakistan skipper also hailed speedster Haris Rauf for his improved showing lately.
"The amount of improvement he has shown, the bowling unit has got confidence. His home ground in BBL is MCG. He didn't let us miss Shaheen in the manner he took responsibility," Babar said.
BCCI’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 may have created controversy earlier this week, but Babar said the players from both sides share a healthy camaraderie.
"We have shared a good bond with Indian players and that's what professional sportsmen do. It also helps in on field relations as we all give 100 percent for our teams."
(With PTI inputs)
