Suryakumar Yadav, a standout in India’s T20I lineup, has voiced his ambition to secure a place in the Indian Test side, emphasizing that red-ball cricket remains a key focus for him. India is set to play 10 Tests in the coming months, providing plenty of opportunities.

Suryakumar Yadav Eager To Represent India In The Longer Format

While a staple in the white-ball format, Suryakumar has only featured in one Test match—against Australia in February 2023—where he managed just eight runs in his lone innings. He was also named among the reserves for the ICC World Test Championship Final, later this year.

However, with strong competition from the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, KL Rahul, and Rajat Patidar, Suryakumar puts up a significant challenge ahead of him in earning a Test spot.

“There are a lot of people who have worked really hard to earn their place and even I want to earn that spot again,” Suryakumar said as quoted by ICC.

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“I made my debut for India in Tests. After that, I got injured as well. There were a lot of people who got an opportunity and have done well too. They deserve that opportunity right now,” he added.

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Suryakumar Yadav All Prepped Up To Play Duleep Trophy

At the age of 33, Suryakumar Yadav is set to make his return to red-ball cricket, representing Mumbai in India’s domestic Duleep Trophy. Additionally, he will feature in the Buchi Babu tournament. Eager for the upcoming challenges, Suryakumar is determined to make a strong impression on the field. He is a part of Team C, which is led by Ruturaj Gaikwad in Duleep Trophy 2024.

“Going forward, if I have to play, then I will automatically play. That is not in my control. What is in my power right now is to play the Buchi Babu tournament, go on to play the Duleep Trophy and then see what happens,” said the batter.

“But yes, I am really looking forward (to it). There are ten Test matches lined up and I’m obviously excited for some red-ball fun,” he added.

Suryakumar Yadav has scored 5,628 runs in 82 first-class matches at an average of 43.62 with 14 centuries in his name.

“Red-ball cricket has always been my priority. When I grew up in the maidans (grounds) of Mumbai and played a lot of local cricket, I started playing with the red cherry. The love for the longest format began there, and has always been there,” added Suryakumar.

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“I have taken part in a lot of first-class matches for more than ten years now and I still cherish playing this format,” he concluded.

He also emphasized that the longest format has always been his priority and he’d be more than willing to gain a spot back in the Indian Team. The ‘Men in Blue’ will be preparing for a grueling Test season as the team is all set to play two match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19.