New Delhi: In a significant leadership shift, Shreyas Iyer is set to be appointed as the new captain of India’s T20 International team, replacing Suryakumar Yadav, according to sources. The decision marks a major turnaround in Iyer’s career, having been out of the T20I setup for over two years.

Major decision taken by BCCI

Sources indicate that the decision to appoint Iyer as skipper was finalised during a recent Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Apex Council meeting held on Thursday. The move signals a strategic shift in India’s T20I leadership ahead of upcoming international assignments and long-term planning for future ICC tournaments.

Iyer is expected to attend the BCCI selection committee meeting scheduled for Saturday, where squads for the Ireland and England tours, as well as the Asian Games, will be finalised. The meeting is also likely to confirm his role officially as captain.

Remarkable comeback for Iyer

The development represents a remarkable comeback for Iyer, who last featured in a T20I match for India against Australia in Bengaluru in December 2023. Since then, he had been absent from the shortest format at the international level.

However, his consistent performances in domestic cricket and a strong showing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 have brought him back into contention. Representing Punjab Kings, Iyer scored an impressive 498 runs in the season, showcasing his form and leadership qualities.

Selectors appear to have been convinced by his recent performances and his ability to anchor innings while maintaining a steady scoring rate.

Upcoming series to test new leadership

India’s next T20I assignment is scheduled in Ireland, where the team will play two matches on June 26 and June 28. Following the Ireland tour, the team will travel to England for a longer white-ball series comprising five T20Is and three One Day Internationals (ODIs).

These series are expected to serve as the first major test for Iyer in his new leadership role. The selectors are reportedly keen on building a stable core group under fresh leadership as they prepare for future global tournaments, including the T20 World Cup 2028.

Tilak Varma likely to be vice-captain

In another key development, sources quoted by news agency ANI suggest that young batter Tilak Varma is likely to be appointed as the vice-captain of the T20I team. The decision is believed to have been taken in consultation with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and other members of the selection panel.

The move indicates a focus on grooming young leadership talent alongside experienced players, ensuring continuity and balance in the squad.

Suryakumar Yadav’s dip in form a factor

Suryakumar Yadav, who previously led India to victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and helped the team successfully defend their title, has reportedly lost favour due to inconsistent performances.

Despite India’s success in the tournament, Suryakumar had a modest campaign with the bat, scoring 242 runs in nine matches. His struggles continued in IPL 2026, where he managed only 270 runs for Mumbai Indians, contributing to the team’s disappointing ninth-place finish.

Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim noted that the selectors are likely looking beyond current players to build a team for the future. He pointed out that similar transitions have occurred in the past, with senior players making way for a new generation.

Focus shifts to future planning

The appointment of Iyer and the potential inclusion of Tilak Varma in a leadership role underline the BCCI’s intent to rebuild and strengthen the T20I squad with a forward-looking approach.

With the next T20 World Cup scheduled in 2028, selectors appear to be laying the groundwork early by identifying players who can form the backbone of the team over the next few years.

Conclusion

Shreyas Iyer’s expected appointment as India’s T20I captain marks a fresh chapter for the national team. His return to the squad and immediate elevation to leadership highlights the selectors’ confidence in his abilities and vision.

As India prepares for a busy international calendar, all eyes will be on Iyer to deliver both as a batsman and a leader. The upcoming tours of Ireland and England will provide the first glimpse into this new era of Indian T20 cricket.