Suryakumar shoots 'I know what to do' remark on form concerns after India's T20 WC squad announcement

Suryakumar Yadav's form, a real concern for India

This move toward leadership continuity stands in stark contrast to the handling of Shubman Gill, who was dropped from the squad entirely. While Gill currently serves as the captain for both the Test and ODI formats, his extended lack of runs in the shortest format led to his exclusion. The selectors have clearly favored Suryakumar’s specialized T20 expertise and captaincy over the versatile but struggling Gill, signaling a desire for a settled environment in the dressing room.

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I have time to fix it: Suryakumar Yadav

The statistical reality of Suryakumar's recent form adds weight to the selectors' bold gamble. Over his last 22 innings, the T20 specialist has managed only 244 runs and has failed to record a single half-century. Nevertheless, the team management remains steadfast in their support. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar emphasized this during the press conference, stating that the board maintains full faith in the captain’s ability to rediscover his touch and deliver match-winning performances on the world stage.

"We have full faith in our captain to deliver during the World Cup," Agarkar said at the press conference.

However, Suryakumar admitted his rough patch and vowed to make a comeback soon. 

"My rough patch has gone on for too long. But I know what to do. I have time to fix it. We will definitely see Surya the batter," Suryakumar stated.

All-rounder Axar Patel has been appointed as the team’s vice-captain. Suryakumar with Patel as his deputy, will first feature in a five-match home T20I series against New Zealand. Starting on January 21, 2026, this series serves as the final competitive dress rehearsal, allowing the team to fine-tune their combinations just weeks before the World Cup begins.