Star India batter Suryakumar Yadav is keen on making a return to the Test squad with India set to play 10 Tests this year. In the coming months, the Rohit Sharma-led side will play two against Bangladesh, three against New Zealand, and five on their tour of Australia. As Gautam Gambhir stepped in as India’s new coach, many players vied for a spot in the Test squad.
Suryakumar is one among these contenders, who last played in the format during the Border Gavaskar Trophy at home. He managed to score only eight runs in his first innings, which remains his sole Test appearance. Notably, he is participating in the ongoing Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament 2024 in Tamil Nadu and the Duleep Trophy 2024 in order to strengthen his case for a Test recall.
Suryakumar has gained prominence through the Indian Premier League (IPL) and T20I format. He is currently holding the position of the second-best T20I batter in the ICC T20I batter rankings. He has emphasized that he has always prioritized Test cricket and is committed to making a significant impact in the red-ball format.
“The love for red-ball cricket has always been there. Though I made my debut for India in the shorter formats first, I have always enjoyed playing this format. Red-ball cricket has always been the first priority. There is no question about it and that is why I am here ahead of the Duleep Trophy,” the 33-year-old was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
Suryakumar admits that red-ball cricket presents a little challenge and requires careful consideration during practice sessions. The 33-year-old has experience of 82 first-class matches, where he accumulated 5,628 runs at an average of 43.62, including 14 centuries and 29 half-centuries.
“This format is a little challenging. 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 on to the ground. The thinking part of what needs to be done has to be done during the practice sessions. You cannot go to the game and think too much.
“What is in your control are the practice sessions and what you do until the start of the game. If you do well, stay humble. If you do not do well, go back to the basics and drawing board, start and come back again,” he said further.
