ODI format is the most challenging, balance is very important – Suryakumar Yadav

Indian batter Suryakumar Yadav has admitted ODI format is the most challenging and it is very important to maintain balance. SKY hasn’t yet grabbed his chances in the ODI format but he has been backed by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel for the Asia Cup.

SKY is yet to take the 50-overs version by storm as he has done in the shortest format. In 26 ODIs, SKY has scored only 511 runs at an average of 24.33. Yadav could only score 78 runs in the recent three-match ODI series against the West Indies at an average of 26.

The right-hander feels it is imperative to get settled, rotate the strike, and then take the attack to the opposition in chronological order in the 50-overs version.

“Everyone is saying that ‘T20 is going good for me, both are white ball cricket but why I am not able to crack the code in the 50-over format.’ But, I am doing my practice because according to me, this format is the most challenging one. The reason behind this is because here you have to play like the other 3 formats. First by setting down with calmness and composure, then rotating the strike well, followed by at last the T20 gameplay,” Suryakumar Yadav told Star Sports.

The 32-year-old from Mumbai has scored 1841 runs in 53 T20I matches at an average of 46.01 and a blistering strike rate of 172.7 but life hasn’t been the same for him in the ODI format. Yadav admitted he has to play according to the match situation in the 50-overs format and get the job done for the team.

“So, balance is very important in this format, and for that reason, I am doing a lot of practice and also having conversations regarding this with Rahul Sir, Rohit bhai, and Virat bhai. Hopefully, with this tournament going forward, I will crack the code. I am just trying to keep my intent and approach the same at least, because it’s very important to stick to your approach when you are playing this sport. But I am trying to play with the situation.

“For example, if I am going to bat at the 30th over and 20 overs are remaining, then from the beginning I can’t play my game like I play in T20 because there we will be only down with one wicket and here four wickets, so I have to play with that situation. So I am doing my practice in that way to decode this format, and hopefully, I will decode it with the sort of preparation I’m having.”

India will begin their Asia Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele on September 2.