NEW DELHI: Following India’s 21-run triumph over a determined Oman in their final Group A Asia Cup match, Captain Suryakumar Yadav offered a frank assessment, acknowledging the challenging conditions and unique circumstances faced by his team.
Arshdeep Singh (Pic credit: ACC)
Acknowledging the challenging conditions, Suryakumar stated, “It’s a little difficult when you’re sitting and suddenly you come out and play. It’s so humid here.” This came after bowlers Harshit Rana (1/25 in 3 overs) and Arshdeep Singh (1/37 in 4 overs) conceded runs on their return to the playing XI. Despite having to rotate eight bowlers, the Indian skipper was full of praise for the opposition. “Overall impressive. I feel Oman played really well. I knew with their coach, Sulu sir (Sulakshan Kulkarni), there would be a certain ‘khadoosness’ (stubbornness). It was amazing, truly enjoyed watching them bat.”
Suryakumar also commented on Hardik Pandya’s run-out, calling it “unfortunate.” He explained his decision to bat lower down the order, even below Kuldeep Yadav at number nine, was strategically aimed at giving other players more time at the crease. He lightheartedly quipped, “I will try to bat higher than No. 11 in the next game.”
Sanju Samson, who was named Player of the Match for his impactful 56 runs off 45 balls, expressed his satisfaction at finally getting significant time in the tournament. “It was humid and hot out there,” Samson noted, highlighting his recent fitness efforts. “Working on my fitness the last few weeks. We just got a new trainer and did the Bronco test. Good to see I got to spend some time in the middle.” He also commended Oman’s bowling, “They (Oman) bowled really well. Have to give credit to Oman. Bowled well in the powerplay also, were swinging it upfront. I keep backing my strength to stay positive. Any contribution with the bat for your country, you have to take the positives.”
Oman’s captain, Jatinder Singh, shared a similar sentiment of pride regarding his team’s courageous effort. “I am extremely proud of the unit. The way they came up, they had their plans and executed them well. They were very much in the present. So proud of the way they have shown their character in the crunch situation.” He admitted the tournament’s scale was intimidating, adding, “The hype of the tournament was there in the mind. We lack a little experience and exposure. This game was a blessing in disguise. We have a World Cup qualifier happening in Oman and the boys are ready.”