Suryakumar Yadav, often referred to as SKY, is one of the most exciting players in the world of cricket. However, his recent performances in the ongoing T20I series against England have raised questions about his form.

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The India captain has struggled to make an impact with scores of 0 and 12 in the first two matches of the five-game series. Despite this, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has defended the captain’s approach.

Speaking on the eve of the third match in Rajkot, Kotak dismissed concerns about Suryakumar’s form. He said that SKY’s style of play is built on taking risks for the team’s benefit.

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The coach also pointed out that high-risk cricket inevitably comes with failures, but it is necessary when aiming for big scores in modern T20 matches.

What did Sitanshu Kotak say about Suryakumar Yadav?

Kotak praised Suryakumar’s fearless batting, calling it “selfless” and essential for the team’s aggressive approach.

“Surya, I think he is performing, but sometimes I feel we also expect a lot. Every game, if we think Surya will perform, that is not okay. The game has become so aggressive… there will be a time when they get out because they are playing fearless cricket,” said the Indian batting coach at the pre-match press conference.

He explained that the team’s strategy focuses on scoring 200-225 runs, which requires players to prioritize intent over preserving their wickets.

“Because if you want to score 200-225, you cannot play cricket where you are trying to save your wickets. Both things do not go hand in hand. He plays a brand of cricket for the team which is very, very selfless, and that is what he tells the batters as well. There are games he will perform, and there are games where he will not,” Kotak added.

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When asked about changes in Suryakumar’s approach, Kotak dismissed any such notions.

“I think that he has been batting with the same flow. Opposition sides will bowl in areas to target him, but he is very smart and will read that,” he said, expressing confidence in SKY’s ability to adapt and deliver.

Suryakumar Yadav’s T20I stats since 2024

Suryakumar’s recent numbers have not been impressive. He has scored in single digits in three of his last four innings, with his last half-century coming against Bangladesh in October 2024.

Let’s take a look at his T20I stats since January 2024:

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Despite this dip, he has led India to series wins against Bangladesh, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Under his captaincy, India has performed well, including securing a 2-0 lead in the current series against England.

The team now has a chance to seal the series in the third match in Rajkot on January 28.