Mumbai Indians’ star batter Suryakumar Yadav has rediscovered his blistering form, smashing a match-winning century against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to revive his team’s playoff hopes in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
Yadav’s 51-ball century was a masterclass in batting, rescuing Mumbai from a precarious 31/3 against Hyderabad on Monday. Partnering with Tilak Varma, Yadav unleashed a barrage of boundaries and sixes, leaving the SRH bowlers helpless.
The cricket world erupted in praise for Yadav’s brilliance, with South African pacer Wayne Parnell jokingly suggesting a DNA test to explain his exceptional talent.
“Has anyone ever done a DNA test on @surya_14kumar? This guy is DIFFERENT, different,” Parnell tweeted.
Yadav’s return to form is a timely boost for Mumbai, who have struggled for consistency this season. The Indian batter, ranked No. 1 in the ICC T20I rankings, proved his worth with a dominant display.
Former India cricketers Irfan Pathan, Mohammad Kaif, and Parnell hailed Yadav’s destructive knock.
“Surya Kumar Yadav’s match-winning 100 for struggling MI is a show of character. By taking on Cummins before the World T20, he has made a strong statement,” Kaif tweeted.
“Last game Surya Kumar Yadav scored half century and at the start till 15 balls he was literally playing with 100 strike rate and end up scoring at 160. Today also started responsibly. Commitment and skill,” Pathan tweeted.
Speaking after the match, Yadav downplayed concerns about his fitness, despite limping after his century.
“I have done this after a long time. I fielded for 20 overs and batted for 18 overs, only tired (nothing else to worry about.) I feel it was the need of the hour for me. I went out to bat, needed someone to bat till the end. I just enjoyed my time,” Yadav said.
Yadav’s century has reignited Mumbai’s playoff hopes and sent a warning to their rivals. The Indian batter’s return to form is a major boost for the team and the IPL as a whole.
