India opened their final phase of preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup with a commanding 101-run win over South Africa in the first T20I, but questions continue to mount over captain Suryakumar Yadav’s prolonged batting slump. Despite India’s impressive depth, Suryakumar’s lack of runs has become a key talking point as the team looks to solidify its core ahead of the tournament.

Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta expressed concern over the skipper’s form, noting that his last T20I fifty came in October 2024 against Bangladesh. In his last 15 T20I innings, Suryakumar has crossed the 25-run mark only twice. Dasgupta said India has been “missing Suryakumar for a long time now” and added that both Suryakumar and vice-captain Shubman Gill could benefit from consistent scoring spells.

Dasgupta, however, acknowledged the strength of the team, praising India’s performance on the sticky Cuttack pitch. “The win showed how good India is, especially on a challenging surface. It says a lot about their depth,” he said, while also noting that thinking too much about form could prevent players from batting freely.

Also Read: Sanju Samson’s T20 World Cup Spot in Doubt After India vs South Africa Opener

Suryakumar, speaking after the match, encouraged his teammates to continue playing fearless cricket. He credited India’s batting depth for rescuing the innings after the team fell to 48 for 3 before posting a competitive 175 for 6. “We thought we would get to 160, but 175 was unbelievable,” he said, highlighting Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten 59 off 28 balls as a turning point.

India were reduced to 104 for 5 at one stage, but contributions from the lower order carried the team to a strong total. Suryakumar said the team aims to maintain its aggressive approach, noting that depth allows others to step up when top-order batters struggle. He also explained Hardik Pandya’s limited powerplay bowling, citing the need to manage his workload as he returns from injury.

With nine T20Is remaining before the World Cup, Suryakumar’s form remains one of India’s few concerns in an otherwise solid squad. The team management hopes the skipper will rediscover his rhythm as preparations intensify.

Also Read: Australian Star Alex Carey Defends England’s Beach Trip Despite 2-0 Ashes Collapse