Suryakumar Yadav starred with the bat in India’s series-clinching 91-run victory over Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot on Saturday (January 7).

Batting at No. 4, the dashing right-hander slammed 112 not out off 51 balls, propelling the hosts to a gigantic 228/5 in 20 overs. It was his third century in the shortest format of the game.

After the game, Suryakumar said he prefers putting himself under pressure to taste success at the highest level.

“It is really important to put pressure on yourself when you are preparing for the game. The more pressure you put, the better you can play. There is a lot of hard work involved. Some quality practice sessions are also involved,” he was quoted as saying in the post-match presentation ceremony.

It was Suryakumar’s third century in the shortest format of the game and his blistering knock was studded with 7 fours and 9 sixes.

“The boundaries behind were 59-60m, so I tried to clear them. There are a few shots that are pre-determined but you have to be ready for other strokes as well. Most of the time, I try to find the gap, and use the field to my advantage,” Surya stated.

He also credited head coach Rahul Dravid for allowing him to play his natural game.

“Dravid lets me enjoy, and tells me to express myself,” he added.

For his draw-dropping hundred, Suryakumar Yadav deservedly earned the Player-of-the-Match award. He will now be seen in action in the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, starting January 10.