In a thrilling showdown between India and South Africa at St. George’s Park in Gqeberha on December 12, 2023, cricket fans witnessed a spectacular display of skill by the Indian cricket team. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s stellar performance not only put India in a dominant position but also etched his name in the record books. Let’s delve into the remarkable achievements that unfolded during the 2nd T20 International.
The stage was set when Aiden Markram, South Africa’s skipper, won the toss and opted to bowl first. Seizing the advantage of improved weather conditions post-rain hiatus, Markram aimed to capitalize on the moisture-laden pitch. The first T20I in Durban had succumbed to rain, leaving fans hungry for an intense clash, and Markram’s strategic decision hinted at an exciting match ahead.
India faced an early setback as openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill were dismissed for a duck each. The onus fell on Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma to salvage the innings. The latter, however, departed after contributing 29 runs off 20 balls, intensifying the pressure on Yadav.
Displaying captaincy mettle and batting class, Suryakumar Yadav played a pivotal role in resurrecting the innings. His impressive innings of 56 runs off 36 balls, adorned with 5 fours and 3 sixes, showcased both finesse and power. It marked a significant milestone for Yadav in Twenty20 internationals.
SA vs IND: Suryakumar Yadav Scripts 3 Big Records In The 2nd T20I

In the T20I history, Suryakumar Yadav etched his name by becoming the fastest player to reach 2000 runs. His remarkable achievement surpassed the records set by stalwarts like Aaron Finch and Glenn Maxwell. The stats speak for themselves:
- 1163 balls – Suryakumar Yadav*
- 1283 balls – Aaron Finch
- 1304 balls – Glenn Maxwell
- 1398 balls – David Miller
- 1415 balls – KL Rahul
Suryakumar Yadav’s stellar innings not only propelled him to the fastest 2000 T20I runs but also reshaped the landscape of India’s T20I records. Let’s take a glance at the numbers:
Most runs for India in T20Is:
- 4008 runs – Virat Kohli (107 innings)
- 3853 runs – Rohit Sharma (140 innings)
- 2256 runs – KL Rahul (68 innings)
- 2000* runs – Suryakumar Yadav (56 innings)
The Significance of Fewest Innings to 2000 Runs
The feat becomes even more commendable when we consider the fewest innings taken to achieve 2000 runs in T20Is. Suryakumar Yadav joins an elite list:
- 52 innings – Babar Azam
- 52 innings – Mohammad Rizwan
- 56 innings – Virat Kohli
- 56 innings – Suryakumar Yadav*