With the T20 World Cup approaching, India captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged that "batter Surya" has vanished and needed to return stronger. During the South Africa series, Surya, who has been absolutely out of form for the last 14 months, scored just 34 runs in four innings.
"Good challenging series, we did what we could. Only thing is we couldn't find Surya the batter, I think he's missing somewhere. But he'll come back strong. As a leader, very pleased with how the series went," Surya said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
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The 35-year-old appeared a little concerned despite another bilateral T20 series victory, this time by a 3-1 margin against South Africa, even though he is unlikely to continue as captain following the T20 World Cup.
"The brand of cricket we wanted to play was the same, result is in front of us."
He used Jasprit Bumrah's three overs in the Powerplay at the Asia Cup, but he saved his three overs for the back-10.
"We wanted to bowl Bumrah one over in PP, one in middle post-drinks and then in the end. We were challenged, but this game is about how you come back."
Hardik Pandya, the Player of the Match, is ecstatic to have won a crucial match for his country after smashing a 16-ball half-century.
"I do not play cricket to win Player of The Match. I play cricket to win games. It is a good feeling to contribute to the win. It is good to know that. I told my teammates and partner that I am going to step out the first ball and whack it for a six. Today was the day and had to make the most of the opportunity. It feels good when it comes through. It is quite a satisfying day."
