Suresh Raina picks India’s x-factors ahead of Indo-Pakistan clash

India will be coming to the T20 World Cup, riding on the back of some hefty batting firepower heralded by the hallowed trio of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. However, there has been a new addition to India’s terrific trio and now the clique has expanded itself to being a quartet. The latest addition to this hallowed posse of heroes for India is none other than Suryakumar Yadav.

Former Indian all-rounder, Suresh Raina opened up on how the presence of Suryakumar Yadav can leave a serious impact on the Indian cricketing fabric ahead of the showpiece event. The southpaw spoke at length about Suryakumar Yadav’s towering presence in the Indian ranks.

Raina said, “Suryakumar, the batting that he did in the last two years, I want him to show the same intent. There is one more dark horse. His angle, swing is brilliant. But my go-to man would be Hardik Pandya. He will control the game. he will bowl the crucial overs. And he will finish the game, what MS Dhoni has done for a long period. These players would be very important. Suryakumar Yadav will be game-changer for India but at the same time, don't forget Arshdeep Singh, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma.”

He further added, “India need to start well as they face Pakistan in their first match. If we can do well in that match, things will be smooth as India will have the momentum. That is very crucial in the T20s".

India will be starting their T20 World Cup campaign against their arch-rivals, Pakistan. A lot will be at stake as the precursor edition of the contest saw India suffering a tormenting defeat at the hands of their continental neighbours. More than vengeance, India will be hoping to secure the early momentum that can be a major impetus as the tournament swings by.