33 years old Indian National Cricket Team middle-order batsman Suryakumar Yadav has made it clear that he expects to return to the Test squad ahead of a long red-ball season with series against Bangladesh, New Zealand and Australia.
Suryakumar made his Test debut for India in the high-profile Sarhad-Gavaskar series at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur, Jamtha in February 2023. He faced 20 balls in India’s only innings and scored 8 runs before being dismissed by Nathan Lyon.
This remains the only red ball game he has played for the Indian National Cricket Team and currently he is no longer in the scheme of things for Test cricket.
He was even dropped from the ODI set-up after being named the T20I captain, but the team management has made it clear that the door is open for him to return to the longer formats.
Suryakumar Yadav is a very experienced campaigner and has already played 82 first-class matches. He was very successful and scored 5628 runs at an average of 43.62.
Veteran batsman Buchi Babu will play in the Invitational Tournament followed by Duleep Trophy and Ranji Trophy. If he manages to impress the selectors with his good performances, he might even be called back to the Test team.
However, his return to India’s red-ball team will not be easy as Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel have produced sensational performances in the limited opportunities they have had.
Suryakumar Yadav also acknowledges the competition as he said players who perform well deserve a place in the Indian team before him.
“There are many players who have worked hard to earn their place in the Test squad. Even I want to be in that Test squad. I got injured after making my debut for India in Tests. There are many players. Players who have done well in their opportunities now deserve the opportunity,” said Suryakumar Yadav.
Going forward, if I have to play, it’s not up to me – Suryakumar Yadav
The 33-year-old further said that he wants to wear the whites for India once again but the choice is not in his control and he just has to focus on his performances.
“Going forward, if I have to play, that’s not in my control. What’s in my control right now is to play this tournament (Buchi Babu), keep playing Duleep Trophy and then we’ll see what happens,” added Suryakumar Yadav.
Suryakumar Yadav added that the red ball format is quite challenging for the players as they have to be one step ahead all the time. He elaborated:
“This format is a bit difficult. You have to be one step ahead. You cannot bat like you do in a T20I match. But at the same time, intent is very important, including the body language you carry into the floor. The thinking part of what needs to be done should be done during the practice sessions.
“You can’t go into a game and think too much. What you have control over is the practice sessions and what you do leading up to the game. If you’re doing well, be humble. If you’re not, go back. basics and the drawing board, start and come back.”
