Mumbai Indians talisman batsman Suryakumar Yadav stated that personal milestones are important but it matters more what the team needs in a particular situation. SKY was once again at his best as he scored another classic knock of 51 runs from 38 balls with the help of six fours and two sixes against DC in the first qualifier of IPL 2020.
The flamboyant right-hander kept the scoring at a healthy rate despite the early wicket of MI skipper Rohit Sharma. Yadav added 62 runs with Quinton de Kock and kept the scoreboard ticking for the defending champions. Thus, the 30-year old batter played a crucial role in getting MI to a par score of 200 runs in their 20 overs.
Yadav has thus far scored 461 runs in 14 innings at an impressive average of 41.91 and a whirlwind strike rate of 148.23.
When former Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar was only 39 runs away from reaching 500 runs in the tournament, SKY stated he is more focussed on the team’s requirements rather than his personal milestones. Yadav also revealed that it was a beautiful wicket to bat on and he wanted to be positive given the potent batting unit of his team.
Yadav said in the post-match ceremony, “I think it was a wonderful wicket to bat on. Considering the dew factor, we wanted to be positive. I wanted to bat some overs. At the end of the day, I really enjoy how I batted today. It gives a lot of freedom when I go to bat at the top of the order. But at the same time take the responsibility and bat as deep as I can. Currently, I would say we would enjoy the night and see what happens. Not thinking about 500 runs. Personal milestones are important but what matters is what the team requires”.
Suryakumar Yadav has been a consistent performer in the IPL for MI and he was at his best against DC in the first qualifier at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. On the other hand, MI bowling unit was relentless as they restricted DC to 143-8 to win by a huge margin of 57 runs. Thus, MI have qualified for their sixth finals in the IPL.
SKY will look to continue his good form and he has been a big positive for the defending champions. The right-hander has batted with confidence and he is making the most of his opportunities.
