Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has backed Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav to bat at number four in T20Is. Yadav scored a fine knock 32 runs off 22 balls in the opening T20I against New Zealand at Nagpur on Wednesday. Ahead of the ongoing series, SKY scored just 244 runs at an average of 12.84 in the last 22 innings and had a top score of 47.

SKY joined forces with opener Abhishek Sharma after India was in a spot of bother at 27-2 in the opening game but he played a decent knock and added 99 runs off 47 balls with the left-hander. Kaif highlighted that SKY’s record at number four is better.

“His record at No.4 is better, and I think he suits better at No.4, but if the opening partnership fires, if they play for 6-7 overs, in that case SKY should come in at No.3, because if he gets to play more balls, then India will benefit from it. If a wicket falls to the new ball, then you can send in Tilak Varma,” Mohammad Kaif said on Star Sports.

The former UP batter said SKY is one good knock away from finding his form ahead of the T20 World Cup.

“I think it is a concern for now, but he is only one innings away from finding form, he is such a big batter, has a brilliant record, and is a big-match player. If one knock comes of 50-60 runs, then the form will return,” Kaif added.

The Natwest Trophy final hero added that Yadav shares a great bonhomie with his teammates, which helps him in leading the team with aplomb.

“Surya’s camaraderie and chemistry with his teammates are excellent. I remember one match where even after India won, he was seen talking with players. He was focused on letting the players know about the mistakes, even after winning, and how to improve them for the next game. I have seen passion from him as a captain. He has become a proper leader,” Kaif concluded.

The second T20I between India and New Zealand will be played at Raipur on Friday.