Suryakumar Yadav and Virat Kohli starred with the bat for India as they humble Hong Kong by 40 runs in the Asia Cup 2022 fixture on Wednesday, August 31, in Dubai. With this victory, the Men in Blue have booked a Super 4 berth in the continental tournament.
Suryakumar, in particular, was the show-stopper on Wednesday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. He changed the complexion of the game ever since he arrived in the middle. The Mumbai-born batter struck six boundaries and as many sixes for his unbeaten 68 off 26 deliveries.
Virat Kohli was watched the masterclass unfold from the other end. At the end of India’s innings, Kohli bowed down to Suryakumar Yadav and the duo were seen sharing a laugh. Asked about the former Indian captain’s reaction, the 31-year-old said at a post-match press conference:
“It was a heartwarming gesture. I was wondering why he wasn’t going ahead and waiting instead. Then when I realized, I asked him to walk together.”
Stating that he immensely enjoyed batting with the experienced Kohli, Suryakumar said “He has so much experience, I enjoyed batting with him. It is important to have someone experienced in a situation like this, because I haven’t played as many T20 games as he has.”
“Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye” – Suryakumar Yadav on KL Rahul’s inclusion
Suryakumar Yadav backed struggling opener KL Rahul despite his poor recent returns. He pointed out that the vice-captain has only just returned from injury and might need some time to find his groove.
Rahul scored 36 runs in the Asia Cup 2022 match against Hong Kong in Dubai on Wednesday, August 31. However, he played 39 balls and did not look in good rhythm during his stay at the crease.
At a press conference following the match, the batter was asked if he would be seen opening the innings as part of Team India’s experiments. He cheekily replied:
“(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?).”
“He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now. As far as I am concerned, I have always said that I am very flexible to bat at any number. I have told the coach and captain that make me bat at any number, but just play me,” he added.
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