Winning a series often brings relief but sometimes it also brings uncomfortable clarity. India’s 3–1 T20I series victory over South Africa at home was convincing on paper, yet it highlighted areas that need urgent attention before the T20 World Cup in February–March 2026. The biggest concern remains the form of captain Suryakumar Yadav, whose struggles with the bat have cast a shadow over an otherwise successful campaign.
Suryakumar Yadav, widely regarded as one of the most gifted T20 batters of his generation, endured a difficult year. In the 2025 calendar year, he failed to score a single half-century and averaged under 14, making it the toughest phase of his international career so far. Across 20 matches, he managed only 218 runs and has now gone 22 innings without crossing the fifty-run mark. His highest score this year was an unbeaten 47 against Pakistan during the Asia Cup group stage in September and even his strike rate dipped below his usual standards.
After India wrapped up the series with a win in the fifth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Suryakumar Yadav spoke honestly about his own struggles. With a smile and self-awareness, he admitted that his batting form hadn’t clicked yet but expressed confidence that he would return stronger. As captain, however, he took pride in how the team responded in pressure situations, pointing out that different players stepped up whenever the side needed support.
There is no doubt that Suryakumar Yadav still has runs in him. His recent IPL season for Mumbai Indians was outstanding, where he scored 717 runs, reminding everyone of his class. The challenge now is translating that form back into international cricket. The upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand is likely to be his final opportunity to regain rhythm before the World Cup.
On the field, the final match against South Africa showcased the aggressive style India wants to commit to. Half-centuries from Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma powered the team to a massive total of 231 runs. The bowlers then did enough to secure a comfortable 30-run victory, sealing the series with authority.
Suryakumar Yadav emphasised that the team had a clear vision going into the series. India wanted to play fearless cricket, stay aggressive and allow players to express themselves freely. He felt the side succeeded in doing just that, especially with the bat. Once a batter got going, the idea was to keep pushing, maintain momentum and apply constant pressure, something that worked particularly well in the final match.
While the results offer confidence, the road ahead demands honesty. India’s intent is clear, the talent is unquestionable, but the captain’s form remains a concern. With the World Cup drawing closer, the hope is that Suryakumar Yadav finds his touch at the right time, turning questions into reassurance when it matters the most.
