Suryakumar Yadav named ICC T20I Player of the Year

NEW DELHI: Indian cricketer

Suryakumar Yadav

has clinched the prestigious

ICC

T20I Player of the Year award for the second consecutive year in a testament to his outstanding performances and consistent contributions.
The

International Cricket Council

(ICC) hailed Yadav as the "backbone of India's middle order" in the T20 format, emphasizing his pivotal role in shaping victories for the national team.

Despite facing an initial challenge with a modest innings of seven against Sri Lanka, Yadav rebounded with remarkable form, boasting an average nearing 50 and an impressive strike rate exceeding 150 throughout 2023.
The ICC recognized his impact, describing him as a player who delivered "several match-winning contributions."

The cricketing body acknowledged Yadav's resilience and ability to thrive under pressure, particularly when taking on the responsibility of captaincy towards the end of the year. Despite the added burden, Yadav showcased exceptional leadership and continued to be a vital asset for the team.
In a statement, the ICC stated, "The backbone of India's middle order got starts throughout the year, delivering several match-winning contributions. This is the second consecutive year that the India batter has taken this award home."

Yadav's standout performances included crucial innings against West Indies, Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Notable knocks featured an 83 (44) against West Indies, a pivotal 61 (45) in Florida, and a breathtaking 112 (51) against Sri Lanka, where he hammered nine sixes and seven fours.

His century against Sri Lanka stood out as the second-fastest hundred for India in men's T20Is, second only to

Rohit Sharma

's 35-ball effort against the same opponent in 2017.
Currently in recovery from a groin surgery undergone in Germany, Yadav is expected to make a triumphant return to the cricketing scene during the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he represents the Mumbai Indians.
The consecutive ICC T20I Player of the Year awards solidify Yadav's position as a key player in India's T20 setup, recognizing his impact, consistency, and match-winning capabilities in the dynamic and fast-paced format.

(With inputs from PTI)