Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has raised concerns about Suryakumar Yadav’s lack of form in T20I cricket, emphasizing that the 35-year-old batsman does not have the luxury of time to turn things around. Yadav’s struggles were evident in the third T20I against South Africa, where he managed just 12 runs off 11 deliveries in a seven-wicket win for India.
With the year coming to a close, Yadav is on the brink of finishing without a single T20I fifty to his name. In 2025, he has only mustered 213 runs in 18 innings at an average of 14.20, failing to reach double figures in half of those outings. Despite his age, Kaif pointed out that Yadav has the backing of the team management, unlike players like Karun Nair who are overlooked due to their age.
“Suryakumar Yadav is 35 years old. Virat Kohli retired at 35 after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The most important thing is form,” Kaif stated, highlighting the significance of performance over age in team selection. He also drew a comparison with Michael Hussey, who made his debut at a relatively older age.
As Yadav continues to struggle for runs, questions loom over his future in the Indian team, especially with other talented players waiting in the wings. However, Kaif believes that Yadav’s position in the side is secure, regardless of his recent form.
“Mohammad Kaif stressed on the fact that Suryakumar Yadav not being in form is a bigger concern for Team India leading into the 2026 T20 World Cup, compared to Shubman Gill’s dismal run,” the article states. Despite his struggles, Yadav is unlikely to be dropped from the team, with Kaif asserting that a change in captaincy at this stage is out of the question.
Even as Yadav’s form remains a cause for worry, Kaif believes that he will retain his place in the side leading up to the T20 World Cup. The Indian skipper will have a chance to redeem himself in the upcoming fourth T20I against South Africa, with India looking to seal the series with a win.
In conclusion, while Suryakumar Yadav’s form may be a concern, his spot in the team seems secure for now as India prepares for the T20 World Cup in 2026. Despite his struggles, Yadav is backed by the team management, ensuring that he will have the opportunity to rediscover his touch in the crucial matches ahead.
