From champion to sidelined? Suryakumar reportedly stripped of T20 captaincy

MUMBAI: India’s T20 setup is set for a major shake-up after reports emerged that Suryakumar Yadav has been removed as captain of the national T20 side, just months after leading India to a World Cup triumph.

According to Indian media reports, the decision comes in the wake of a prolonged dip in batting form. Over the past two years, Suryakumar Yadav’s performances have steadily declined, with his 2026 IPL campaign also failing to deliver consistent returns. He managed 270 runs in 13 innings at an average of 20.76, with only one half-century standing out.

Suryakumar had taken over the leadership role following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from T20 internationals after India’s 2024 World Cup win in the West Indies. Despite guiding India to their third T20 World Cup title in March this year, questions over his batting form continued to grow.

Reports suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), in consultation with the team management and selection committee, has now decided to appoint a new captain as the team moves into a fresh cycle.

A senior BCCI official was quoted as saying that while the team achieved success under Suryakumar’s leadership, his form and long-term future were key factors in the decision to move in a different direction.

India are next scheduled to play two T20Is in Ireland followed by a five-match series in England, where a new captain is expected to take charge.

The official communication regarding Suryakumar Yadav’s future in the side is expected soon, with reports also suggesting he may not be part of immediate selection plans going forward.