Cricket News

Big setback for India’s World Cup as key batter suffers from injury, set to miss series against Afghanistan

In a significant blow to India’s preparation to the upcoming T20 World Cup. India’s key batter Suryakumar Yadav has suffered an ankle injury that may keep him out of action for seven weeks. This setback couldn’t have come at a worse time, with the T20 World Cup just around the corner.

Suryakumar Yadav, the stand-in captain for India’s recent T20I series against Australia and South Africa, reportedly suffered a Grade-II tear in his ankle. The incident occurred during the third T20I in Johannesburg, where Suryakumar, after scoring a remarkable century, twisted his ankle while fielding. This Grade-II tear is a serious concern, and the timing couldn’t be more inconvenient.

India secured a resounding 106-run victory, with Suryakumar earning the player of the match accolade for his century. During the post-match presentation, he downplayed the injury, stating, “I am good. I am able to walk, so it is not that serious.”

His leadership and consistent performance were crucial for the team, and filling this void will pose a challenge. Upon returning to India, Suryakumar’s ankle was promptly scanned, revealing the extent of the injury. The confirmation of a Grade-II tear adds to the complexity of the situation.

The medical team will now be working tirelessly to facilitate a swift and effective recovery for the explosive batter. Unfortunately, Suryakumar will be sidelined for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, the only remaining match before the T20 World Cup. These matches are crucial for fine-tuning strategies, and Suryakumar’s absence and will undoubtedly be felt.

Suryakumar Yadav’s stellar run in T20Is

Before the injury, Suryakumar had been in imperious form, becoming the third Indian batter to surpass 2000 runs in the T20 format. His century against South Africa at the Wanderers added another feather to his cap, leveling him with Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell for the most centuries in T20Is.

Suryakumar’s achievement of joining the elite 2000-run club signifies his consistency and prowess in the T20 format. His impressive record places him in esteemed company alongside Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, underlining his significance in the team’s batting lineup.