Entering the third T20I against South Africa, the Indian cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, had a singular task – to secure a victory. After the series opener was washed out and India faced defeat in the second T20I, Suryakumar Yadav spearheaded a remarkable comeback.
The Indian skipper showcased his exceptional T20I form by scoring a blistering 100 in 56 balls, featuring seven fours and eight sixes, achieving at a strike rate of 178.57. India posted a formidable 201/7 in 20 overs, and Kuldeep Yadav’s five-wicket haul restricted South Africa to 95.
Despite his stellar performance, Suryakumar Yadav faced a significant injury scare. In the third over of the South African innings, he injured his ankle while fielding and had to be taken off the field. However, he later reassured that the injury didn’t appear serious, hobbling his way to the post-match presentation.
“I am good. I am able to walk so it is not looking that serious,” stated Suryakumar, expressing his joy at scoring a century in a winning cause. He highlighted the team’s commitment to playing a fearless brand of cricket and praised Kuldeep’s five-wicket haul as a perfect birthday gift.
Suryakumar Yadav’s remarkable T20I statistics include the most centuries from the number three position or below, overtaking Eoin Morgan. He also surpassed Virat Kohli in T20I sixes, securing the second position for Indian players. In just 60 T20Is, he has amassed 2,141 runs at an average of 45.55 and a strike rate of 171.55, with four centuries and 17 fifties.
In 2023, he played 18 T20Is, scoring 733 runs at an average of 48.86, including two centuries and five fifties, with the highest score of 112 not out.
