Suryakumar Yadav, the dynamic captain of India’s T20I side, has openly discussed the pressure of potentially losing his leadership role. This concern stems from the meteoric ascent of Shubman Gill, who has now taken the reins as captain in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test cricket. India’s T20 squad boasts an array of talent, including explosive batsmen, adept spinners, formidable fast bowlers, and versatile all-rounders, positioning them as formidable contenders in major tournaments. While Suryakumar Yadav hasn’t been among the top run-scorers recently, his captaincy has been instrumental in the team’s success, notably securing the Asia Cup in 2025. Gill’s promotion to captaincy in other formats and his appointment as T20I vice-captain has naturally led to discussions about future leadership. Suryakumar acknowledged a sense of apprehension, stating, ‘everyone feels that fear. But, it is the kind of fear that keeps you motivated.’ He emphasized the strong rapport he shares with Gill, describing their relationship as ‘amazing off the field and on it.’ This mutual respect, he believes, fuels his determination to perform at his best. Having debuted in T20Is at the relatively late age of 31, Suryakumar asserted that he doesn’t dwell on such anxieties. He believes his rigorous training and honest approach to the game will ensure his future is secure, allowing him to focus on his performance rather than external pressures.
