Sunil Gavaskar Advises Suryakumar Yadav to Take 3-4 Balls Before Playing in Asia Cup 2025 Final

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has advised Suryakumar Yadav to take three to four deliveries in the middle before unleashing his natural batting style in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan. Gavaskar emphasized that understanding pitch conditions is crucial, especially in a high-stakes clash.

So far in the tournament, Suryakumar has scored 71 runs in five innings, averaging 23.66 with a strike rate of 107.57. His scores include 7*, 47*, 0, 5, and 12. This contrasts sharply with his stellar IPL 2025 season, where he amassed 717 runs at an average of 65.18 and a strike rate of 167.91. In India’s recent match, he scored 12 off 13 balls before falling to Wanindu Hasaranga.

Gavaskar highlighted the importance of assessing conditions:
"He’s undoubtedly a class player. I would suggest he give himself three or four deliveries to gauge pace, bounce, or turn. Watching from the dugout is different from stepping onto the field," Gavaskar told Sports Today.

"Sometimes it may feel like there’s nothing in the pitch, but taking a few balls before playing your natural game is always safer," he added.

A Tough Day Can Be Beneficial
Gavaskar also noted that India’s challenging match against Sri Lanka, which went to a Super Over, could serve as a confidence booster ahead of the final. India posted 202/5, with notable contributions from Abhishek Sharma (61) and *Tilak Varma (49)**. Sri Lanka fought back strongly with Pathum Nissanka (107) and Kusal Perera (58), pushing the contest to a Super Over. Exceptional bowling from Arshdeep Singh helped India secure victory.

"Facing a tough day before the final can be beneficial. The team maintained composure in the last few overs while defending the total," Gavaskar said.

After remaining unbeaten in six group-stage and Super 4 matches, India aims to defend their Asia Cup title against Pakistan on September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.