Consistent performances year after year has helped Suryakumar Yadav establish himself as one of India’s premium white-ball batsmen. He has made a splash ever since he returned to Mumbai Indians for the 11th season of the IPL. Bought for INR 3.2 crore, the Mumbai batsman used his ample knowledge of the Wankhede Stadium pitch and made full use of the opportunities given to him. In a season where they failed to qualify for the playoffs, Suryakumar shone with his performances at the top of the order. Asked to open the batting, Suryakumar excelled in his role and scored over 500 runs in 2018, including four fifties. Used as a middle-order by Kolkata Knight Riders, Suryakumar’s new role with MI was a game-changer. Facing the new ball, he has looked at ease and handled the situation well. Playing as per the situation, Suryakumar was able to change gears and even played patiently when the situation demanded. In 2019, he amassed 424 runs to be MI’s second-highest run-getter. He outperformed himself in the 2020 season scoring 480 runs at a strike rate of 145 and went on to make his T20 International debut later for India. It wasn’t a surprise for anyone when he smashed the deliveries right from ball one and scored an magnificent fifty that resembled confidence. Just how much he is valued by MI was proved ahead of the auction when he was retained by the franchise. Much of MI’s success this season will depend on how Suryakumar goes about his business.