“Mark Waugh Praises Suryakumar Yadav’s Explosive ODI Performance”

Indore, September 24: Mark Waugh, former Australian all-rounder turned commentator, has lauded Suryakumar Yadav for his sensational performance in the second ODI against Australia at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.

Batting at No. 6, Suryakumar blazed to a half-century in just 24 balls, ultimately remaining unbeaten with 72 runs off 37 balls. His explosive innings, comprising six fours and six sixes, powered India to a total of 399/5 after being asked to bat first.

Waugh spoke highly of Suryakumar’s unique style, stating, “He is completely unique. I have never seen a player hit the ball to the areas he hits it. His real skill is to hit the ball where there is no fielder. That sounds simple, but that needs skills. He can manipulate the field and find the gaps.”

Suryakumar showcased his prowess against Australian pacer Cameron Green by smashing four consecutive sixes in the 44th over. His incredible feat made him only the third Indian batter to achieve this in ODI history, following Zaheer Khan and Rohit Sharma.

Zaheer Khan vs Henry Olanga, 2000
Rohit Sharma vs Suranga Lakmal, 2017
Suryakumar Yadav vs Cameron Green, 2023

Former Indian all-rounder Abhishek Nayar, who is also Suryakumar’s ex-Mumbai teammate, praised his performance, especially his ability to score in different areas of the field.

Rain interrupted play during Australia’s chase of the mammoth target of 400 runs, leaving them at 56/2 after 9 overs. David Warner (26) and Marnus Labuschagne (17) were at the crease when the rain delay occurred.