Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has commended Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel following India’s impressive comeback victory against Sri Lanka in the first T20I in Pallekele on Saturday. Team India secured a 43-run win after bowling out Sri Lanka for 170, despite the hosts being well-placed at 140/1.
Axar Patel’s crucial 15th over shifted the momentum in India’s favor, dismissing Pathum Nissanka (79) and Kusal Perera (20). Suryakumar Yadav’s strategic move to introduce Riyan Parag into the bowling attack proved pivotal, with Parag taking three wickets in just eight balls, including the final Sri Lankan wicket.
Praising Yadav’s captaincy, Pathan tweeted, “Axar Patel’s brilliant over turned the game for India, claiming two crucial wickets. Stellar captaincy from Surya, bringing in Riyan Parag for an over to dismiss the left-hander with his off-spin. Caught the pulse of the game really well. #INDvSL”
Irfan Pathan highlighted the unique advantage Riyan Parag brings to the Indian team due to his ability to contribute both as a top-order batsman and a bowler. Pathan emphasized that Parag’s versatility, particularly his bowling skills, sets him apart in a country where few top-order batsmen can roll their arm over. This dual capability, according to Pathan, will earn Parag more opportunities, and rightly so, as it adds valuable depth and flexibility to the team’s lineup.
“You will see Riyan Parag getting many chances due to his bowling ability. As a top-order batsman, not many in the country have the ability to roll their arm over. This is where Riyan Parag will get an extra advantage, and rightly so,” Irfan added.
This match marked Suryakumar Yadav’s debut as India’s full-time T20I captain. Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 213, thanks to contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (40 off 21 balls), Yadav (58 off 26 balls), and Rishabh Pant (49 off 33 balls).
The chase started promisingly for Sri Lanka, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis (45) adding 84 runs for the first wicket. However, Arshdeep Singh broke the partnership, and Axar Patel’s over caused further damage. Suryakumar Yadav was named Player of the Match, his 16th such award, equalling Virat Kohli’s record.
India now leads the T20I series 1-0 against Sri Lanka, with the second match scheduled for Sunday and the third on Tuesday. The two teams will also face off in a three-match ODI series in Colombo on August 2, 4, and 7.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
