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Indian Team Management Assigns Suryakumar Yadav New ODI Role at No. 6: Reports

image-lks7lqrkSuryakumar has failed to replicate his T20I heroics in ODIs (AP Photo)

The Indian team management is ushering in a significant change in its middle-order strategy by assigning the aggressive Suryakumar Yadav to the No. 6 batting position in ODIs. According to a report by The Indian Express, this key decision comes as a result of extensive consultations between selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar, head coach Rahul Dravid, and captain Rohit Sharma.


Indian think tank has handed Suryakumar No. 6 batting role

Suryakumar's shift from No. 4, where he averages a mere 6, to No. 6, could redefine India's batting approach in the ODIs. At No. 6, Yadav currently bhas an average of 18.25 with a strike rate of 107.35 from four games. 

The move aims to leverage the Mumbai batter's explosive T20 style, with the team management believing that his aggressive play can thrive in the death overs when fewer balls are available.


India's No. 4 batting position has been a chronic challenge, especially since the last World Cup. Suryakumar's initial induction into that role was met with great hope, but the results were underwhelming.

His unique play style, marked by fluid wrist movements and audacious shots, has made him a match-winner in T20 cricket. However, translating that success to ODIs has been a struggle, with the batter averaging 23.80 at a strike rate of 100.42 over 25 games.

With the World Cup approaching and uncertainties over the match fitness of key players like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, this move could be a masterstroke. The 32-year-old has the potential to be the X-factor in the second power play, changing the game's dynamics.

The dynamic batter's lower-order placement is seen as a potential boost to the Indian batting line-up, especially in the crucial middle-overs phase. It's a strategic acknowledgment of his proven capabilities and a tailored role that the team management feels can unleash his full potential.

Meanwhile, the upcoming matches present Suryakumar with an opportunity to cement his place in the 50-over side and justify the faith placed in him by the think tank. All eyes will be on his performance in his new role, which may very well determine the future course of India's ODI ambitions.