Across 37 ODI appearances, the middle-order batter accumulated 773 runs at an average of 25.76. These figures stand in stark contrast to his explosive reputation in the shortest format. His final outing in the 50-over setup occurred during the 2023 World Cup final against Australia, and he has not featured in the team’s ODI plans since that tournament concluded.
Reflecting on a Missed Opportunity
In a recent discussion on Aakash Chopra’s YouTube channel, the 34-year-old reflected on his international journey, dismissing the idea that external factors or selection decisions were to blame for his limited impact. Instead, he pointed to a lack of necessary preparation and an inability to adapt his mindset to the specific demands of
Suryakumar explained that while he understood his role would likely be in the middle order at No. 5 or 6, he failed to invest the required effort to master the nuances of that position. He noted that his time in the ODI side passed by rapidly, and he struggled to find a consistent approach to constructing an innings, ultimately expressing regret that he could not perform to his own expectations.
The Tactical Challenge of the 50-Over Game
Describing ODI cricket as the most difficult format for a batter, Suryakumar highlighted the unpredictable nature of the game. He noted that players entering the crease at No. 4, 5, or 6 often face volatile situations, such as arriving at the pitch with the team already two or four wickets down. According to the batter, the format requires a patient, Test-like approach, where one must respect the bowlers and build an innings gradually before accelerating.
He admitted that he did not put in the same level of rigorous practice for ODIs that he currently dedicates to his T20 training. While he now prioritizes extensive preparation—often practicing for an hour and a half for every hour spent batting in the nets—he acknowledged that he did not apply that same discipline during his time in the ODI squad. Consequently, his 50-over career remains an unfinished chapter in his international tenure, serving as a point of personal disappointment despite his achievements elsewhere.
