NEW DELHI: Suriya Kumar Yadav has equalled Virat Kohli’s record for the most Player of the Match (POTM) awards in T20 Internationals. Suriya has won his 16th POTM in just 69 matches, equalling Kohli’s record of 125 matches.
The milestone was achieved when India defeated Sri Lanka by a commanding 43 runs in the first T20I of the 2024 tour at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Asked to bat first, India posted an impressive 213/7 in 20 overs, led by captain Surya’s smash of 58 runs (8 fours, 2 sixes) off 26 balls. His explosive innings showcased his aggressive intent and ability to steer the match in his team’s favour, earning him the POTM award.
Despite the absence of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, Surya’s innings provided the needed stability and momentum. Rishabh Pant also contributed significantly with a brisk 49 off 33 balls. Hardik Pandya and Riyan Parag added quick runs in the middle overs while Akshar Patel’s unbeaten 10 off five balls helped India cross the 200 mark.
In reply, Sri Lanka were restricted to 170 in 19.2 overs, with Pathum Nissanka’s 79 off 48 balls and Kusal Mendis’ 45 off 27 balls being the only notable performances in a disappointing chase.
Arshdeep Singh and Riyan Parag stood out among the Indian bowlers, with Singh bowling brilliantly to score two runs for 24 and Parag to score three runs for five.
SKY’s haul of 16 POTM awards in such a short space of time is indicative of his impactful performances and key role in India’s T20I team, and while the series has only just begun, fans and analysts alike are keen to see if he can surpass Kohli’s record and continue to be a game-changer for the team.