Dale Steyn sees AB de Villiers in Surya Kumar Yadav

Surya Kumar Yadav forms fulcrum of India's middle-order [Source: Twitter]

Despite his late entry into international cricket, India's Surya Kumar Yadav is enjoying a purple patch. Currently regarded as one of the most destructive middle-order batters, Yadav is ranked Number 2 in the ICCT20I Rankings for batsmen, behind Mohammad Rizwan.

Yadav, who made his debut in 2021, has played 34 T20Is for India and scored 1,045 runs, including one hundred and nine fifties at a staggering strike rate of 176.81.

The Mumbai Indians' player is known for hitting all over the park and being innovative from the get-go. His technique against pacers and spinners is equally effective, making him a scary prospect for the opposition.

Former South African pace bowler Dale Steyn has praised Yadav for his batting approach, which resembles teammate AB de Villiers. Known as 'Mr.360' de Villiers was renowned for his ability to hit multiple shots for every ball.

Speaking on Star Sports, Steyn said

"So, he is a wonderful 360-degree player, and reminds me of AB de Villiers. He could be India's version of AB de Villiers and with the red-hot form that he's in right now, he's a player to definitely watch out for this World Cup,"

Steyn further added that Yadav's batting style will suit Australian pitches, and will be one to look out for in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2022. 

Yadav scored  52 off 35 balls in India's warm up match against Western Australia XI on October 10. 

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