INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has deemed Suryakumar Yadav's selection "a big temptation" for the home team as they
gear up for the impending ODI World Cup
Manjrekar highlighted Suryakumar's selection as one of the key aspects that need addressing before the tournament, scheduled to be hosted by
India in October-November.Suryakumar has carved a niche for himself as a prolific T20I batter, consistently delivering strong performances
in the format.However, he has yet to replicate the same level of success in the 50-over game, which poses a challenge for the upcomingWorld
Cup.In an interview with Star Sports, Manjrekar shared his perspective on Suryakumar's potential inclusion in the tournament lineup."I think
most issues seem to address that the batter is in pretty good form
India of course have to ponder on the Suryakumar Yadav case because 50 overs cricket is not quite making the same impact but he will be such
a big temptation on a big stage when he walks in with just 15-17 overs left in the innings, can be a game changer."So that is an issue India
need to sort of finalise whether they want Suryakumar Yadav, so that is one loose end they need to tie," Manjrekar said.Additionally,
Manjrekar highlighted the crucial role of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the team's success
"Hardik Pandya's form is a little bit of concern, his bowling because you will have to do a lot of physical work in the World Cup because
you need him as the all-rounder not just a batter so at least 6-7 over per innings is what is expected from him."When India won the world in
2011, it was because of people like Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh, pure batters who bowled a bit, so Hardik Pandya's bowling is very
important," Manjrekar said.Furthermore, Manjrekar shed light on the spin department, asserting the importance of spin bowlers in the 50-over
"I guess in the spin department Chahal needs to rise to the occasion in the 50 overs format to get those crucial wickets along with Kuldeep
Yadav because Jadeja will be your containment bowler."I think the same department is always going to be a bit of a gamble with all teams
considering the pitches and sizes of the grounds in India," Manjrekar said.(With inputs from PTI)
