Former fast bowler RP Singh has expressed his support for Suryakumar Yadav as India’s potential No. 4 batsman during the upcoming ICC World Cup, considering the possible absence of Shreyas Iyer due to injury. The lack of a reliable middle-order batter was one of India’s weaknesses during the 2019 World Cup, and with Shreyas recovering from his injury, the team might face a similar concern.
RP Singh emphasized the significance of providing Suryakumar ample game-time ahead of the prestigious tournament, even though the talented Mumbai batsman is yet to replicate his T20I success in the ODI format. Having failed to score a half-century in his last 16 ODI matches, Suryakumar will have to adapt his game-plan to handle the longer format effectively.
The former left-arm fast bowler acknowledged the limited options India currently has for the No. 4 position and endorsed Suryakumar’s potential as a viable choice along with Shreyas Iyer, provided the latter is fit. Singh pointed out that having backup options for crucial positions is essential in major tournaments and expressed confidence in Suryakumar’s ability to deliver if given the opportunity.
Commenting on India’s pace-bowling prospects, RP Singh also weighed in on the young pacer Umran Malik. While acknowledging Malik’s impressive pace, Singh emphasized that the bowler needs to work on honing his skills, as raw speed alone might not suffice in international cricket. He suggested that Umran should get more game-time to develop and showcase his potential before the World Cup.
The discussion also revolved around the eagerly awaited return of Jasprit Bumrah to international cricket. RP Singh stressed the importance of Bumrah playing as many matches as possible during the Ireland tour and the Asia Cup to regain rhythm and confidence ahead of the World Cup.
Regarding wicketkeeping options, with Rishabh Pant unlikely to be available and KL Rahul still recovering from an injury, RP Singh suggested Ishan Kishan as a viable backup for the wicketkeeper-batsman slot. Ishan had received some game time in the first ODI against West Indies, which would help him remain confident and ready in case KL Rahul is unavailable for the World Cup.
Overall, RP Singh’s insights and endorsements for Suryakumar Yadav, Umran Malik, Jasprit Bumrah’s return, and Ishan Kishan as a wicketkeeping option have sparked excitement among cricket fans. With the ICC World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on the Indian team’s preparations and selections as they aim to conquer the pinnacle of world cricket.
