Picture Credit: BCCI
While there is a lot to look forward to during India's limited-overs matches against Sri Lanka, the added buzz around the mega auction prior to IPL 2022 has added to the excitement. Although this is likely to be India's only limited-overs series before the T20 World Cup, the new player retention policy, which allows only 4 players to be retained, may also play on the minds of players.
However, responding to a question by SportsTiger in the press conference ahead of the series, SKY downplayed the impact of the retention policy on the mindset of players in the current series. He added that the players are really focused and are raring to go.
You can't think about what's happening back home: SKY
"Not really. I think this news came yesterday. We are still trying to find out if it's true or no. But yeah when you play for India the emotion is completely different. I think when you play for India, you don't think about anything else. You are representing your country..the feeling is completely different so, at that time, you can't think about what's happening back home. So everyone is really focused and raring to go," Suryakumar replied to SportsTiger's question.
If the policy is indeed corroborated by official sources, it would be interesting to see the players five-time champions Mumbai Indians decide to retain. While skipper Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah appear to be the two straight picks, can Suryakumar Yadav beat the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan to retain his place in the team? Only time holds the answer.