As the 2026 T20 World Cup looms, India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, is under intense scrutiny due to a recent slump in form. In response to growing concerns, Yadav has asserted, "I'm not out of form, definitely out of runs". This statement comes amidst a string of low scores, sparking debate among fans and cricket analysts alike.
Yadav's recent performances have been a significant departure from his explosive standards. Since 2024, he has managed just 239 runs in 21 T20I innings, averaging 13.35 with a strike rate of 120.10; he hasn't scored a half-century, and only two of his innings have lasted more than 20 balls. In 18 innings this year, Suryakumar has scored 213 runs at a strike rate of 125.29 and average of 14.20, which is below his career strike rate of 163.60 and average of 35.67 in 92 innings. In the third T20I against South Africa, he struggled for 11 balls, scoring only 12 runs.
Despite these figures, Yadav maintains that he is batting well in the nets and is confident that runs will come. "The thing is, I've been batting beautifully in the nets. I'm trying everything that's in my control. And when the game comes, when the runs have to come, they'll definitely come. But yes, I'm looking for runs — not out of form, but definitely out of runs," he said.
Supporting Yadav, the team management has expressed confidence in his ability to regain form before the World Cup. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate affirmed the team's faith in Yadav's quality and leadership, emphasizing his impressive IPL record. "Personally, I think you back quality players and quality leaders like that and they will come good. I can understand from the outside it looks like a concern, but I have got absolute faith in both of them coming good at the right time for us," said ten Doeschate.
However, not everyone shares this optimism. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan voiced his concerns, stating that Yadav's poor form is a "real cause of concern for India". Pathan emphasized the added pressure on Yadav as captain, noting that his place in the playing XI is secure, but his form must improve before the World Cup. Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif also highlighted that Suryakumar Yadav's poor form is a bigger challenge for India ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup than Shubman Gill's dip.
Aakash Chopra has also weighed in on Suryakumar's form, saying that a captain's job is not just to toss and manage the bowlers, but also to score runs for the team.
India will co-host the T20 World Cup 2026 with Sri Lanka, with the tournament scheduled from February 7 to March 8. As the defending champions, India will be under pressure to perform well on home soil.
Despite his recent struggles, it's worth noting that Yadav had a strong IPL season, scoring 717 runs at a strike rate of 168. Whether this IPL form can translate to international cricket remains to be seen. Suryakumar Yadav's journey back to form will be crucial for India's chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
