Like a countdown ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 pace is picking up, expectations are high from defending champions India. With the team winning the global event, much of the spotlight is on the captain. Suryakumar Yadavwill lead India in the T20 World Cup for the first time. Known for his fearless stroke play and unmatched range, Suryakumar is regarded as the heartbeat of India’s batting unit. His form, role and leadership will be decisive in shaping India’s title defence.
Suryakumar Yadav’s poor form is a concern ahead of the T20 World Cup
Despite his stature in World T20 cricket, Suryakumar’s recent form has been a major talking point heading into the mega event. The 35-year-old had a memorable 2025 in the shortest format, managing just 218 runs from 21 T20Is at an average of 13.62. More worrying for Indian fans was his failure to convert starts with his last half-century returning to the opposite side in October 2024. Bangladesh.
However, there are encouraging signs in recent visits. In the first T20I against New Zealand On January 21 in Nagpur, Suryakumar looked more confident at the crease. His 22 off 32 might not have been a big score on paper, but he bore the trappings of the SKY of old – fluent against spin, inventive in stroke selection and active during the medium overs. His partnership with 99 Abhishek Sharma the third wicket was crucial in India’s 48-run win, giving fans reason to believe that a turnaround might not be far off.
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Irfan Pathan picks Suryakumar’s batting position
Ex-India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has now focused on the debate by offering a clear solution to increase Suryakumar’s impact in the T20 World Cup. Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan strongly backed the Indian skipper to bat at No.4, calling it the most suitable position for him in the shortest format.
According to Pathan, Suryakumar’s dominance in the middle order makes him an ideal candidate to run the game once the power play is complete. He highlighted his batter’s exceptional ability to handle spin, particularly with his sweep shots and unconventional angles, as the main reason for his offer.
“No. 4. His dominance in the middle innings for years and years, his sweeps and really good spin. So I think that’s his position.” Pathan said.
The former cricketer feels that allowing Suryakumar to come in while the spinners are working can help India maintain the momentum while protecting them from too much pressure early on. With the right batting position and renewed confidence, Suryakumar could once again be India’s biggest match-winner as the defending champions prepare for another T20 World Cup run.
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