After finishing the Group Stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 on a high, Team India will begin their Super 8 campaign against Afghanistan on Tuesday in Barbados. Unlike the American venues, the men in blue have an idea of the Caribbean pitches and have left no stone unturned in their preparations. One of India’s strengths in the ongoing tournament has been their fielding and batter Suryakumar Yadav feels that every player has taken that aspect very seriously.
Since the ODI World Cup last year at home, the team’s fielding coach T Dilip began giving away the Best Fielder Medal after every game. The tradition has travelled to the US and the West Indies with every player pushing himself hard to grab it.
Addressing the media on the eve of the Afghanistan fixture, Surya said the Indian players have worked hard in the fielding department which is visible to all.
“Fielding is a non-negotiable aspect and the team has worked hard which is visible on the field. The half-chances in tight matches are very crucial because, at times, they turn out to be decisive. So, we, as a group, have thought about it. We have been spending time with the fielding coach. When we stop a couple of runs or a four or take a good catch, it sends a positive time in the team,” Suryakumar Yadav said at the pre-match presser.
“It obviously happens when you score runs. But when a fielder takes a catch or affects a run-out, it motivates the other guys as well. So, we have taken it more seriously this time around and we are feeling good about it,” he added.
Trying to be the game-changer
Suryakumar, the World No. 1 batter in T20s, also spoke about his role in the team and how he prepares for every game. He also stated that he always tries to be the game changer for his team.
“After playing so much of domestic cricket and IPL, I knew what would be expected when I entered the Indian dressing room. I was very clear about how I should play at a particular spot. Before making my debut, I often used to think how to bat in the middle over, where usually the teams try and take control of the game. And if I could do it, I would be the game changer. So, I actually kept doing it repeatedly, and trained for it as well,” Surya said.
“You can hit big shots in the Powerplay as the players are inside the circle but good batting in the middle overs will ensure a good finish. So, I have done match simulations and now when I go into the game, I’m aware of the situation. So, I try and be the game changer on that day,” he added.
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