India utilized the large screen in Bengaluru to declare the standout fielder after their 160-run victory over the Netherlands in the 2023 World Cup. Despite all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and keeper-batsman KL Rahul being in contention, the dynamic batter Suryakumar Yadav emerged as the recipient of the award.
India elected to bat against the Netherlands, scoring an impressive 410/4 after winning the toss. Shreyas Iyer (128* off 94) and KL Rahul (102 off 64) both delivered outstanding centuries. In reply, the Netherlands were dismissed for 250 in 47.5 overs.
India’s fielding coach T. Dilip revealed the winner through the large screen in a video on the official BCCI website.
“I call him the Guardian today for his quick reflexes – sharp throws, bullet throws,” he said about Jadeja.
Praising Suryakumar, he added:
“Always ready for the battle. And I think someone who never gives up, he has shown lot of reflexes.”
On Rahul, Dilip said:
“Our navigator doing what he does very well. But I think the way he’s showing his skills behind the stumps is outstanding.”
After being awarded the fielder of the match, Suryakumar stated:
“He’s [Dilip] been behind me since one year. Finally, I think this is the reward.”
https://x.com/bcci/status/1723916806342189130?s=46
Before Suryakumar, the best fielder award in the 2023 World Cup went to Team India captain Rohit Sharma for his performance against South Africa on November 5.
“It is about judging attitude” – T. Dilip shared his thoughts on the fielder of the match award
In a press conference after India’s victory over the Netherlands, Dilip, India’s fielding coach, discussed the rationale behind recognizing players for their on-field efforts.
“Basically it is about judging attitude. Yes, there are statistics for catches taken but we look at the overall contribution. An innings has 300 balls, how do you handle them on the field.”
”This is not just about one brilliant catch; it is about the overall effort. We have been doing this for a while, at least for the last four months, but only now it has gone on social media, and people have noticed it,” he explained.
After leading the points table in the league stage, the Indian cricket team is set to face New Zealand in the first semi-final of the 2023 World Cup at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on November 15.
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