SL vs IND: Suryakumar Yadav highlights Axar Patel’s key role ahead of T20I series

A casual conversation captured on camera in time IndiaPractice time at Sri Lanka has sparked intrigue and speculation about the team’s strategy for the upcoming T20I series. The new Indian captain Suryakumar Yadavwith a light-hearted innings with the left-arm spinner Axar Patelpointed to the latter’s key role in powerplay overs.

Suryakumar Yadav’s leaked strategy

A video clip, shared by Sony Sports Network, shows Yadav telling Axar, “Don’t worry. He will be seen bowling in the third or fourth over.”

While this may seem like a mere comment, it carries significant weight, given the context. Powerplay overs are important in T20 cricket, and introducing a spin bowler early can disrupt the opposition’s rhythm and give away important wickets.

Here is the video:

Now watch: #TeamIndianew T20I captain 🇮🇳💙

Farewell, Surya Dada 👏#SonySportsNetwork #SLVIND | @surya_14kumar pic.twitter.com/aXSic8Z4PS

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) July 23, 2024

This tactical approach is in line with the recent trend of teams using spin in the powerplay to exploit the dew factor and exploit batting risks. Underneath Rohit Sharma, India has used this strategy successfully, and Surya’s statement suggests a continuation of the same. Axar, with his ability to hold the ball and deliver the curve, has proved to be a powerful weapon in the middle overs, and using him in the powerplay could add another dimension to the Indian bowling attack.

The selection of another spinner for the playing XI becomes a point of interest. Washington Sundarwho is doing well in recent times Zimbabwe series, is a strong competitor. However, the newly named captain’s comments suggest that Axar Patel is likely to get the nod for the first T20I.

Axar Patel praises Suryakumar’s captaincy

In a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo, Axar praised Suryakumar’s leadership qualities, describing him as a cheerful person who always maintains the spirit of the dressing room.

“I spent a lot of time with Suryakumar. Surya bhai is an excellent host. He keeps his spirit alive, loves acting and fun things. I know you will keep a cool head,” Axar said.

Talking about Surya’s captaincy, Axar also brought up his experience under the Pune-born cricketer and identified him as a skipper.

“I recently played a five-match T20I series when he was captain. I know you are the captain of the bowlers. He gives the bowlers the pitches they ask for. And so it was with me. I don’t think there will be much change. We will know now that he is playing under his captain with his imagination. You can’t judge someone’s captaincy on one trip. The more we play, the more we will know about his style of captaincy,” an all-rounder is added.

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India vs Sri Lanka: Battle of the titans

The three-match T20I series between India and Sri Lanka promises to be an interesting one. Both teams boast excellent batting, capable of chasing down any total or posting big scores. India, led by the flamboyant Suryakumar, will be eager to start their campaign strongly under the new leadership.

On the other hand, Sri Lanka will be motivated by the domestic situation and look to use its strengths. With a combination of youth and experience, the hosts will aim to upset the Indian juggernaut. The series is expected to be high-scoring, with the team that can limit the opponents’ hits and chase the target likely to win.

READ MORE: Sri Lankan batsman Nuwan Thushara ruled out of T20I series against India; replacement announced