Despite his remarkable performances in T20Is, Suryakumar Yadav has struggled to secure a place in India’s ODI lineup during the India tour of the West Indies. In a conversation with India today, former chief selector MSK Prasad emphasized the importance of role clarity for Suryakumar’s success in the upcoming ODI World Cup to be held in India.

Former chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his confidence in Suryakumar Yadav’s inclusion in the ODI World Cup squad, notwithstanding concerns about his performance in the 50-over format. As the Cricket World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5 on home soil, draws closer, the senior national team has been engaged in last-minute experiments to establish a settled lineup.

Suryakumar Yadav marked his ODI debut in July 2021 after making a sensational entry into the T20I format earlier that year. Despite his considerable success in T20Is, where he holds the top spot among batters with 3 centuries, his performance in ODIs has raised questions. While enjoying the team management’s support due to his match-winning potential and field coverage, Suryakumar’s ODI form remains inconsistent.

MSK Prasad pointed out that Suryakumar Yadav has encountered challenges in finding a clear role within the ODI team. His recent discussions with the team management indicated a gradual understanding of his responsibilities within the team structure.

In the 24 innings he has played, Suryakumar Yadav has most frequently batted at No. 5 (11 times). However, he has been shuffled across five different positions, preventing him from establishing a consistent spot in the XI.

Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged his shortcomings in ODI numbers, focusing on improvement in his batting during the final 15-18 overs. MSK Prasad believes that once Suryakumar grasps his role within the team and plays accordingly, he has the potential to become a key match-winner and a formidable finisher for India in the World Cup.