New Delhi: Suryakumar Yadav’s position as India’s T20 captain may largely rest with head coach Gautam Gambhir, as selectors remain unconvinced he can hold his spot solely as a batter, according to a senior BCCI source. Suryakumar, nicknamed SKY by Gambhir, has faced form issues for nearly a year. Inside the board, the selection panel leans toward dropping him, yet officials acknowledge the importance of the coach-captain relationship for team harmony. Gambhir’s support for Suryakumar positions him as central to any final decision. For months, Suryakumar’s role has faced questions. All five selectors reportedly favor his removal from the playing eleven once the T20 World Cup success faded. They now view the team’s longer-term direction beyond one event. Early hopes that the IPL would restore his form proved misplaced, with no adjustments to his technique. Even basic pace bowling has troubled him, and selectors do not see him featuring at the 2028 Olympics, the source stated. His recent returns show 210 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 148 but an average below 18, far below his earlier reputation. Without securing a batting place, retaining him as leader appears difficult, though coach and selector Ajit Agarkar must align, the source noted. Gambhir does not act as a figurehead coach, and those familiar with his approach say he often holds decisive influence. His close ties with Suryakumar could allow him to block any removal if he chooses. Possible replacements include Shreyas Iyer, noted for tactical skill, though his fit with Gambhir raises questions after past IPL events. Shubman Gill’s strong recent IPL showing has renewed interest, despite earlier form dips. If Suryakumar departs, Gill could return to the T20 side, potentially opening with Sanju Samson at number three. The emergence of young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, eyed for future Olympics, adds further options. Tilak Varma also gains attention, with selectors set to assess his leadership in an upcoming tri-nation A series. Indian cricket now weighs form, planning, and internal dynamics, with Suryakumar’s outlook tied to Gambhir’s backing.
