ODI World Cup 2023: Sunil Gavaskar gives blunt verdict over Suryakumar Yadav’s inclusion in Indian team

Though India’s Mr 360 degree batsman Suryakumar Yadav used to struggle in the 50 over format, he had a brilliant run of form during the recently concluded ODI series against Australia.

It was a relief for the selectors, fans and the explosive batsman himself whose selection for the ODI World Cup 2023 was met with some doubt. However, SKY (as Suryakumar Yadav is popularly known) was back at his explosive best as he scored two half-centuries to guide his team to a series win. 

While SKY’s form has improved in the recent past, legendary India batsman Sunil Gavaskar was not convinced with his showing in the ODI format. The Little Master had a blunt verdict over his inclusion in the World Cup playing XI.

“Suryakumar has not done anything big yet in ODI cricket. He only bats in those final 15-20 overs where he utilises his T20 abilities which undoubtedly is important as well. But Hardik, Ishan and Rahul can all do that same job as well. So Iyer is confirmed for No. 4,” said Gavaskar during an interview.

“Suryakumar will have to wait and if he does get a chance at No. 4 he has to score a big hundred and show that he can also score a ton as well,” the former captain added.