Mumbai, October 17, 2025: India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav shared insights into his cricketing journey, leadership approach, and preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in a detailed conversation held in Mumbai. He also addressed the team’s controversial decision during a recent high-profile match against Pakistan.
Journey to the national team
Suryakumar reflected on his unconventional path to the national team, stressing perseverance and adaptability as key factors. He highlighted how continuous self-improvement and seizing opportunities helped him establish himself despite entering the team later than some peers.
Leadership and team dynamics
As captain, Suryakumar prioritizes a culture of fearlessness and mutual respect. He encourages players to express themselves and make decisions on the field, fostering confidence and cohesion. According to him, this approach has contributed significantly to India’s strong performance in recent tournaments.
Decision not to shake hands with Pakistan
When asked about the incident where Indian players did not shake hands with the Pakistan team, Suryakumar clarified, “Not shaking hands with Pakistan was a collective call we took as a team. It was not an individual decision but a consensus reflecting the team’s stance. As leaders, we wanted to be consistent in our approach and maintain unity in how we handled the situation.”
Preparations for the T20 World Cup
Looking ahead, Suryakumar emphasized strategic planning, adaptability, and fitness as crucial for the World Cup. The team is focusing on high-intensity practice sessions and scenario-based preparations to remain competitive against top international sides.
Reflections on the Asia Cup
The captain also spoke about India’s recent success in the Asia Cup, praising the team’s unity and composure, particularly in high-pressure matches against Pakistan. He credited teamwork and a calm mindset as key elements that secured India’s victory.
Evolving role of T20 cricket
Suryakumar discussed how T20 cricket has transformed the game globally. The format encourages innovative strategies, dynamic batting, and wider audience engagement, making it central to India’s cricketing priorities. He believes T20 will continue shaping careers and fan experiences for years to come.
Conclusion
Suryakumar’s insights reveal a thoughtful approach to leadership and competition. His emphasis on teamwork, preparation, and adaptability underscores India’s readiness for upcoming international challenges, including the T20 World Cup, while inspiring young cricketers across the country.