Indian cricket is undergoing a transformative phase, with a young and dynamic team led by Suryakumar Yadav emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the T20 format. Backed by the team management’s unwavering support, this transitional side has been playing an exhilarating brand of cricket, winning 24 out of 26 T20Is in 2024.
Despite the absence of seasoned veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and the injuries to key players like Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian team has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. The team’s newfound freedom of expression, particularly with the bat, has been a key factor in their success.
“Everyone has a different skill set, and they also want to come out and express themselves. So freedom is very important when they get onto the field, which is what I try to give,” said Suryakumar at the start of the series.
This freedom has allowed players like Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma to flourish. Samson, now the record holder for most T20 international tons (3) in a calendar year, has been instrumental in India posting 200-plus totals on six occasions since the T20 World Cup.
Varma, too, has made a significant impact since returning from injury, scoring back-to-back centuries while batting at No. 3. “The team backed us even when we flopped. They told us to play the brand of cricket the team is known for,” said Varma.
The team management’s unwavering support has been crucial in fostering this positive environment. “In T20Is, I never thought of consistency. If there is a ball to be hit, it’s necessary for me to capitalize on that. In the team, even our captain Surya, Gautam bhai, and Laxman sir emphasize maximizing runs in the first innings,” said Samson.
The big question now is how to accommodate the likes of Samson and Varma when injured players return. “I haven’t thought that far ahead. When they come back, we’ll discuss it calmly. It will be tough, but it’s a good headache,” said Suryakumar.
As India gears up to host the T20 World Cup in 2025, the team’s current form bodes well for their chances. The young players have shown immense talent and determination, and with the continued support of the team management, they have the potential to achieve even greater heights.
