Suryakumar Yadav Sheds 14kg With Diet And Training For T20 World Cup

Suryakumar Yadav has made a notable return to competitive cricket, appearing fitter and leaner. This transformation is attributed to a strict diet and rigorous strength training. He lost 12-14 kg following sports hernia surgery. His dietitian, Shwetha Bhatia, founder of 'Mind Your Fitness', explains the regimen that helped him achieve this.

The world's top T20 batter, Suryakumar, was sidelined from competitive cricket for nearly four months after undergoing ankle surgery last December, followed by a sports hernia operation. For elite athletes, regaining peak fitness is always a challenge, with a strict diet plan being fundamental to their recovery.

Bhatia shared, "He looks leaner, stronger, and muscular. His diet plan included supplements to meet these goals. Coordination between recovery and muscle gain rates was crucial." Suryakumar lost 14-15 kg, mostly fat, confirmed by a Dexa machine at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

Strict Diet Plan for Surya at NCA

Post-injury, Suryakumar's diet became stricter. Bhatia emphasized, "We focused on recovery with vitamin supplements." He incorporated more strength training at the NCA. Bhatia and the NCA coordinated his recovery and strength training regimes.

During recovery, calorie intake increases, especially protein. "Calories are increased to avoid fat gain, ensuring muscle mass is maintained," Bhatia explained. Suryakumar's meals were structured to enhance recovery and muscle gain.

SKY's Meal Structure

Suryakumar's diet included three meals, increasing to four as activity resumed. Each meal had quality protein like eggs, meat, or fish. He avoids dairy, rice, and used low-carb flours for rotis. His diet was high in vegetables, fluids, nuts, and avocados, based on availability.

Many cricketers like Suryakumar, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant now employ personal chefs. These chefs accompany them on tours, ensuring tailored meals. This practice is common on long tours, with players booking apartments for their chefs to cook meals. Such dietary diligence reflects the evolving approach of elite athletes towards fitness and health.