When India meet Australia in the opening T20I at Canberra, skipper Suryakumar Yadav will be eager to let his bat speak again. The clash looks evenly poised — both sides have won eight of their last ten T20Is, dropping only one each.
India’s T20 squad has been the most consistent among the national sides, seamlessly adjusting under new leadership. Despite the captain’s personal slump, the team continues to thrive under his fearless brand of cricket.
Since taking charge, Suryakumar has maintained an outstanding record — 23 victories in 29 games — setting a tone of attacking intent and bold decision-making that has led India to several series wins, including an Asia Cup triumph.
Leadership Steady, Form in Question
Although his leadership has been praised, the captain’s prolonged run of low scores has raised concerns. In 2023, Suryakumar smashed 733 runs at a strike rate of 156, including two centuries and five fifties. He added nearly 450 runs in 2024, but 2025 has seen a sharp dip — only 100 runs in 10 innings, averaging 11.
Despite the numbers, his strike rate of 105 indicates he has stayed loyal to his attacking approach.
“I feel I have been working really hard. Not that I wasn’t working hard before. I have had good few sessions back home, good 2-3 sessions here, so I am in good space,” said the skipper at the pre-series press conference at Manuka Oval.
Team Goals Over Personal Numbers
Head coach Gautam Gambhir has shown full faith in his captain, emphasizing that Suryakumar shouldn’t be burdened by his recent scores. The skipper echoed similar sentiments, prioritizing team results over personal milestones.
“Runs, it will come eventually but I’m working hard towards the team goal. It’s more important what team wants from you in different situations and I take one game at a time,” said Suryakumar.
Abhishek Sharma Faces a New Test
For Abhishek Sharma, who stole the limelight during the Asia Cup, adapting to Australian conditions will be a major test. The extra bounce in Canberra could challenge his timing, and that’s where his captain’s stability becomes vital.
Suryakumar’s challenge lies in expanding his scoring areas. His tendency to play behind the wicket often works on subcontinental tracks, but against Josh Hazlewood’s disciplined line on bouncy pitches, it could prove risky. Yet, the pace and bounce at Manuka Oval might just allow him to capitalize if he adjusts smartly.
India’s Bowling Holds the Edge
India’s bowling looks balanced with Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spells and Varun Chakravarthy’s variations forming the core. The spin unit of Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun will play a pivotal role in containing Australia’s middle order.
Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are expected to target Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh early, while all eyes will be on Mitchell Owen, the explosive Australian batter who impressed in Adelaide. Handling India’s spinners for 12 overs could be his toughest challenge yet.
The Road to the T20 World Cup Begins
This series not only serves as a confidence booster but also sets the tone for India’s T20 World Cup preparations. For Suryakumar Yadav, it’s a golden chance to rediscover rhythm, regain consistency, and reaffirm his stature as India’s most dynamic T20 batter.
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