IND vs BAN 1st T20I: Suryakumar hints at managing Mayank Yadav’s workload; Hridoy expects ‘slow and low’ pitch

Hridoy also stressed that Bangladesh is here to win the series, though it will miss the services of champion all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who recently retired from T20 and Test cricket.

FILE PHOTO: Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav before the start of the second T20 International cricket match between India and Sri Lanka. | Photo Credit: PTI

India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav believes that fast bowler Mayank Yadav has the ‘X factor’ that the team needs.

“Mayank has that ‘X factor’. He has extra pace. We have seen his great potential in IPL. He makes an impact on the game whenever he plays for his franchise or state. I hope that he can replicate the same impact for the Indian team. He can make a difference, and is a good addition to the team,” Suryakumar said at a press conference here on Saturday.

Suryakumar added that it is vital to keep a close on eye on Mayank’s workload, especially since he is making a comeback from injury. “We have to manage him well. This is important, given that fast bowlers play a lot - for their State, Duleep Trophy and other tournaments,” Suryakumar said.

Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy stated that he expects the Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium pitch to play “slow and low”.

“We practiced for two days here. The pitch is a bit slow and low. We got some information on the pitch from the ground-staff too. We will try to play according to our plans,” Hridoy said.

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Suryakumar, however, did not agree with Hridoy’s view. “The wicket does not appear low and slow to us. I think it will be a good. competitive T20 pitch,” Suryakumar said.

The skipper confirmed that Sanju Samson will open the batting in this series.