India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav is a giant in this format and his astronomical numbers speak for themselves. But the Mumbai batsman is excited and motivated to play red-ball and multi-day cricket.
In a conversation during the Buchi Babu tournament, he expressed his desire to be included in the Test squad.
You have decided to participate in the Buchi Babu tournament. This shows that you want to return to the red-ball format. How much does it mean to you to compete in the longest format?
Red-ball cricket has always been my priority. Growing up in Maidan, Mumbai, I played a lot of local cricket, but I started playing Red Cherry. My love for the longest format started there and has always been there.
I have been involved in many first class matches for more than 10 years and still cherish playing this format. There is no doubt about it and that is why I am here before the Duleep Trophy.
I will always look for opportunities to play in Mumbai, whether it be first class or tournaments like Buchi Babu. Many international players have played in these tournaments and represented their country.
Can you elaborate on your experience participating in such events during the season?
We are fortunate to have this tournament. In this weather, it is not often that you get to play at home for a few days. Yes, you can practice for a few hours, but standing in the heat for six hours, practicing for three or four days in a row, is something that can only be done through a match. This is very important in the future, in the Duleep Trophy and hopefully in the Tests as well.
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You played for the Indian Test team for a while. There are 10 games coming up. Some of them are at home in conditions that are favorable for spin, and the rest are in Australia. So wrist training will be important. Do you think you can make it?
A lot of people worked really hard to get their place and I want to get that place back. I made my debut for India in Tests.
I’ve been injured since then. There have been many people who have been given the opportunity and done well. They deserve that opportunity right now.
If I have to play in the future, I will play automatically. It is not in my control. What I can do now is play Buchi Babu tournament, play Duleep Trophy and see what happens.
But yes, I am really looking forward to it. There are 10 Test matches coming up and I am excited about the red ball fun.
“There is no seniority or juniority in learning. In this sport, everyone is equal.” | Photo courtesy: PERIASAMY M/ The Hindu
“There is no seniority or juniority in learning. In this sport, everyone is equal.” | Photo courtesy: PERIASAMY M/ The Hindu
India coach Gautam Gambhir wants his team to play fearless cricket.
I think the way he plays in India is amazing and he understands the strengths of each player. He knows what they like on the pitch and in practice sessions. So he gives everyone a free hand.
How do you adjust your hitting style when changing formats?
You need to adapt to the conditions. In Mumbai, we have red dirt, but here it is black dirt and the wicket is a little different.
In the most challenging long format, you have to be one step ahead and you can’t bat like you can in T20. But at the same time, intention is essential. Everything else will work out on its own as you play.
You can’t go into the game and think too much. You just have to go out there and enjoy the game with all your heart. If you do well, be humble, and if you don’t do well, go back to the beginning and start again.
The Mumbai squad here has a mix of young players and experienced players like Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan and yourself. How do you guys learn from each other?
I think there is learning not just from Shreyas and Sarfaraz but also from players who have not played a single game for Mumbai.
You will notice little things during your training that you can observe and add to your routine.
There is no seniority or juniority in learning. In this sport, everyone is equal.
