T20 sensation Chris Gayle thinks that India’s top-ranked batter and acting T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, is a “phenomenal player” with a promising future.
Gayle’s remarks come just days before India’s three-T20I series against South Africa, which begins on Sunday.
Aside from holding both the leading role and as the eldest team member, Suryakumar Yadav stands out as the most aggressive hitter. He has an impressive dual record. It includes a striking rate of 171.71 and an average of 44.11 in 58 of India’s T20Is.
“I don’t know how to describe that, he’s just phenomenal. [He hits] pretty much all around the ground, fantastic. Good strike rate, good player. Like I said, [he has a] bright future as well. I know he pretty much just started but down the road, consistency is going to be even more key for a player like SKY. He’s got phenomenal talent, you know, unbelievable talent,” Gayle said on Star Sports.
Chris Gayle
He Added:
“You just don’t know how to describe it. I am sure bowlers also try to pinpoint how to bowl to him because he’s so, you know, like a 360 [degree] player as well. It is going to be difficult for bowlers to work him, to decide which areas to [bowl to] try and cramp him out. Like I said, he’s just phenomenal.”
Chris Gayle
South Africa and India will play T20Is in Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg before going on to a three-ODI series and two Tests.
“He has the potential to take it to the next level” – AB de Villiers on Suryakumar Yadav
The label “360 player” was first linked to the South African star AB de Villiers. Suryakumar Yadav often gets applauded as his equivalent from India.
In a recent video on YouTube, Ab de Villiers expressed that the Indian player could reach new heights, provided he stays patient.
“I hope he never falls into the trap of trying to push it too hard. As a player, I always respected the situation. Always wait for your opportunity, be patient and you will get it. I believe he has the potential to take it to the next level.”
AB de Villiers
On Sunday, at 7:30 p.m. IST, the first T20I will start.