As anticipation builds around India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement, speculation is growing that the upcoming global event could mark the final chapter for Suryakumar Yadav as India’s T20 captain.
While the BCCI has not made any official statements, sources suggest the selectors are closely evaluating Suryakumar’s future. At 35 years old, the India skipper has endured a prolonged lean patch, managing no significant scores over the past year. His run of poor form stretches across 24 matches and nearly 14 months, raising serious questions about his place in the side.
At present, Suryakumar appears to be retaining his spot largely due to his leadership role rather than consistent on-field returns.
Selectors Finalising Core of T20 World Cup Squad
According to a report by The Indian Express, the selection committee has already locked in several key names for the T20 World Cup squad. The confirmed core includes fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, along with all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.
The team management is also expected to continue with a two wicket-keeper strategy, with Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma likely to be included.
Three Selection Dilemmas Remain
Despite most slots being settled, selectors are reportedly debating between three players:
Shubman Gill – whose recent T20I form has been under scrutiny
Washington Sundar – valued for his all-round abilities
Rinku Singh – known for his finishing prowess
Gill’s position has been questioned repeatedly, especially with Yashasvi Jaiswal waiting in the wings after strong performances. There is speculation that Jaiswal could be included in the upcoming New Zealand T20 series as a contingency option ahead of the mega-event, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Vice-Captaincy Debate: Gill or Hardik?
Former India batter Aakash Chopra believes that Shubman Gill is likely to continue as vice-captain for the T20 World Cup, although he did not rule out Hardik Pandya as an alternative.
“If you have appointed someone vice-captain, you won’t pivot that soon,” Chopra said.
“They may leave the vice-captain slot open or even appoint Hardik Pandya to keep their options flexible.”
Hardik Pandya Strengthens His Case
Hardik Pandya recently delivered a standout performance in the fifth T20I against South Africa, smashing 63 off just 25 balls at a staggering strike rate of 252.00, including five fours and five sixes.
While he conceded 41 runs in three overs, Hardik made a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Dewald Brevis, who looked dangerous during his 17-ball 31.
His all-round impact has further strengthened his case not just as a senior player, but also as a potential leadership option.
Big Calls Ahead for Selectors
With the squad announcement imminent, the selectors face some tough decisions—particularly around leadership, middle-order stability, and future planning. Whether this T20 World Cup turns out to be Suryakumar Yadav’s final outing as captain remains to be seen, but the pressure is unmistakably mounting.
