Suryakumar Yadav is the prime focus in the IND vs SA T20I series? Check details

India is set to face South Africa in a five-match T20I series beginning Tuesday at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. As both teams intensify their final preparations, cricketer-turned-commentator Parthiv Patel has shared his thoughts on the form of India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, stressing that the star batter urgently needs a substantial score to regain confidence. Patel noted that although Suryakumar put in the hard yards in the domestic circuit while representing Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, his performances didn’t reflect the high standards expected from a player of his calibre.

Suryakumar Yadav eyeing to score big in the IND vs SA T20I series?

Despite playing five matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, Suryakumar Yadav failed to register even a single half-century, a statistic that has raised concerns ahead of the crucial T20I series. Patel feels the Indian skipper must rediscover his rhythm quickly, as his form will play a significant role in dictating India’s momentum against a strong South African side.

"It is true that if you look at Suryakumar Yadav, the batter, there is a need for runs. He got a start in Australia, and we got some glimpses. We have seen some innings in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26 as well, but those big runs haven't come,"  stated former Indian wicket-keeper batter Parthiv Patel. 

Former wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel pointed out that a large portion of Suryakumar Yadav’s recent runs have come through high-risk strokes, which has contributed to his inconsistency. He emphasized that while Suryakumar is naturally aggressive, relying too heavily on risky options early in the innings reduces his chances of building substantial scores. According to Patel, it would be far more beneficial for the 35-year-old to give himself time at the crease, assessing conditions, settling his footwork, and choosing his moments carefully - before shifting into his trademark attacking mode.

By adopting a more measured start, Suryakumar could strike a better balance between flair and stability, allowing him to construct longer innings and regain his confidence. Patel believes this approach will not only help Suryakumar find form but also provide India with greater solidity at the top, especially in a high-pressure series where early wickets can shift momentum quickly.

"Talking about the leg-side, the flick is his favorite shot. He picks the length quickly and is very fast with his footwork. If we look at his scoring areas, 50% comes from the fine leg in the leg-side region. Most of the shots you hit in those areas are off the balls that are bowled into the stumps. That means you are taking a lot of risk. I feel he should take some time, and if that happens, we will again see him score those runs on the leg side," Parthiv added. 

Suryakumar Yadav’s recent form in Australia has raised eyebrows, as he managed only 84 runs across four innings during IND vs AUS five-match T20I series Down Under. While his strike rate of 171.42 showcased his ability to score quickly, the larger concern was his inability to stay at the crease for longer periods. His short bursts of aggression provided momentary impact, but they lacked the sustained presence needed to anchor the innings or build match-defining totals.

With the T20 World Cup 2026 drawing closer, India will be eager for their captain to rediscover his rhythm and consistency. Suryakumar’s role is pivotal, not only as a power hitter but as a stabilizing force in the middle order who can adapt to different match situations. As the tournament approaches, the team will hope that he extends his stays at the crease, converts quick starts into meaningful scores, and leads from the front with both intent and responsibility.