In the thrilling 2023 World Cup match between India and Bangladesh at Pune’s MCA Stadium, cricket fans were treated to an intense showdown. While numerous aspects of the game sparked discussions, the standout topic that captured the attention of fans and cricket pundits alike was Shreyas Iyer’s batting performance. This article delves into why Suryakumar Yadav could emerge as a potential replacement for Iyer in the 2023 World Cup.
Shreyas Iyer, a highly skilled right-handed batsman, faced formidable challenges during the match. He managed to accumulate just 19 runs from 25 deliveries, with a mere two boundaries to his name. Iyer appeared well-set at the crease but faltered when attempting to play a substantial shot. His dismissal unfolded in the 30th over when he ventured down the track to confront off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Regrettably, he misjudged the shot, resulting in Mahmudullah taking a crucial catch at mid-wicket. It appeared that the ball struck the toe-end of Iyer’s bat, spiralling into the sky.
This incident is far from isolated. Iyer has consistently squandered his wicket despite promising starts. The ability to transform these starts into substantial scores is a pivotal facet of a successful batsman’s repertoire, and Iyer has been falling short in this department.
Here are two compelling reasons why Yadav could be the remedy India seeks.
World Cup 2023: 2 Reasons Why Suryakumar Yadav Can Replace Shreyas Iyer
1. Capitalizing on Promising Starts
As Iyer is not converting the starts that he is getting at number 4, the situation reverses. KL Rahul may play at number, with Hardik Pandya batting at number 5. Suryakumar Yadav can come it at number 6, and be deadly and dangerous at the back end of the innings, just as he has shown in the last few ODI’s that he has played.
2. Mastering the Short-Pitched Deliveries
One of Shreyas Iyer’s glaring weaknesses is his vulnerability to short-pitched deliveries. Opposition fast bowlers have adeptly exploited this chink in his armour, consistently subjecting him to bouncers and short-pitched balls. In contrast, Yadav has displayed greater resilience in confronting these challenges. He can play the scoop and take the game away from the opposition with quickfire innings at the back end of the innings. While KL Rahul can consolidate batting at number 4.
