Suryakumar Yadav, the batsman for Team India, put up another half-century to continue his remarkable run of form, leading his team to an eight-wicket victory over South Africa in the first T20I at Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday (September 28). Suryakumar scored 50 runs in 33 balls, including three sixes and five fours.

The Mumbai Indians batter broke Shikhar Dhawan’s record for the most T20I runs scored by an Indian cricket team in a calendar year during his innings.Dhawan had scored 689 runs in 18 matches in 2018 at an incredible strike rate of 147.22 and an impressive average of 40.52.

In the lead-up to the first Twenty20 International against South Africa in Thiruvananthapuram, Suryakumar, a batter of 31 years old, broke the record with just eight runs to spare. He did so magnificently.With plenty of matches remaining as India prepare for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month, the stylish batsman now has 732 runs in 2022 and appears poised to increase that total.

Additionally, Suryakumar holds the record for most maximums in a calendar year with 45.In the year 2021, he beat Mohammad Rizwan’s record of 42 sixes.

KL Rahul claimed that Suryakumar Yadav’s regal fifty-run stand allowed him to take his time because of his partner’s aggressive nature.India scored only 17 runs in six Powerplay overs due to Rahul’s struggles, but South Africa were unable to mount a comeback thanks to SKY’s dominance.

“Definitely, right up there (as the toughest pitch). We have played in some difficult conditions like this but I haven’t got runs. So this was hard work.”

Rahul said when asked if it was the toughest strip he has batted on in T20Is.

He praised Surya’s approach wholeheartedly. Surya’s ability to play those shots out there was unbelievable. We witnessed the wicket today’s balls flying, nipping around, two-pacing, and everything else that can be challenging for a batter.

ALSO READ: IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma Surpasses MS Dhoni’s Record For The Most T20I Victories By An Indian Skipper In A Calendar Year

“And for Surya to come with that approach after the first ball that hit him, he just woke up and wanted to play his shots, be aggressive and take on the bowling. That helped me take my time and play one end,”

Rahul added.

Surya Kumar Yadav –

Last match – 69(36) vs Australia
This match – 50* (33) vs South Africa

Back to back Fifties for the No 2 ICC T20i batter 🔥 #SuryakumarYadav #INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/X3xXlOEgax

— विजय (@VijayKu42060698) September 28, 2022