Suryakumar Yadav has emerged as a surprise contender for India’s T20I captaincy following their triumphant T20 World Cup campaign in 2024. The dynamic batsman has caught the eye of the selectors and the new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, who see him as a potential long-term leader for the team.
The selectors and new coach Gambhir have identified Suryakumar Yadav as a surprise contender for India’s T20I captaincy. The dynamic batsman has caught their eye as a potential long-term leader.

Yadav has led Mumbai in domestic cricket and captained India in seven T20Is. His leadership skills were evident in the team’s victories over Australia and South Africa.
However, the selectors’ desire for stability has led them to favor Yadav over Pandya. Pandya’s underwhelming performance as Mumbai Indians captain in the IPL has also contributed to this decision. Yadav is known for his aggressive batting and consistent T20I performances.
Gambhir, the new head coach, has always been a fan of Yadav’s attacking approach. He believes Yadav can lead the team to greater heights.
The team management respects Yadav, and they know he can adapt to different situations. His consistent performances and quick scoring make him a valuable asset.
Yadav’s captaincy is a significant moment for Indian cricket. His success or failure will have a major impact on the team’s future.
Pandya remains a key player for the team. The selectors have asked him to play more domestic cricket to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.