Suryakumar Yadav's captaincy in its last days; BCCI set to zero in on Shreyas Iyer

NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors are reportedly considering removing Suryakumar Yadav from the captaincy of the Indian Twenty20 team. The BCCI's move comes amid preparation for the team's upcoming tours of Ireland and England after the IPL. Suryakumar's poor run of form has raised eyebrows, forcing the management to make a tough decision.

Suryakumar has been struggling with batting since taking over as captain in July 2024. He has scored just 932 runs in the last 45 matches. Although India won the 2026 T20 World Cup, the player struggled to find form throughout the tournament. Of the total 242 runs he scored, 84 came against a new entrant USA. The BCCI is aiming to mould a youth team with the 2028 T20 World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics in mind. The selectors are looking for a long-term captain to replace Suryakumar.

Meanwhile, there are indications that Suryakumar's poor form is due to a wrist injury. He has been playing in severe pain since the last IPL season. It was also common to see heavy tapes applied to his wrists with the help of the team doctor.

Although the names of Malayali player Sanju Samson and star batsman Ishan Kishan are being considered for the captaincy, Shreyas Iyer is the most likely to fill the void due to his excellent captaincy record in the IPL. The selectors are hopeful that the team can be further strengthened under Iyer, who has successfully led various franchises.

Suryakumar, who led India to the Asia Cup (2025) and the T20 World Cup (2026) as captain, has a winning percentage of 76.92. However, his lack of form and injury concerns are a challenge.