Team India Gears Up for 1st T20I Against SA: Hardik and Shubman Ready, Assures Suryakumar

India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav is optimistic that Hardik Pandya’s return will bolster the team’s tactical acumen and balance, akin to their successful Asia Cup campaign, as they prepare to face South Africa in a five-match T20I series starting Tuesday.

Ace seam-bowling all-rounder Pandya, who missed the Asia Cup final due to a left quadriceps injury, is back in action and excellent form after participating in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His comeback, crucial with the T20 World Cup on the horizon next year, reinstates flexibility and balance to the team. His ability to deliver spells with the new ball allows India the option to field multiple spinners.

“What you saw in the Asia Cup is, with the new ball, he provides numerous combinations for the playing XI,” Suryakumar mentioned on the series’s eve. “His experience and performance in major ICC events bring invaluable balance to the side.”

Pandya, who arrived a day early in Cuttack for solo training, skipped Monday’s optional session, but Suryakumar confirmed both he and Shubman Gill — recuperating from a neck spasm — are ready to play. “Both are healthy and fit,” he assured.

On Preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup

India’s series marks the beginning of a 10-match buildup to the home T20 World Cup in February. According to Suryakumar, groundwork for the 2026 World Cup began after clinching the 2024 edition. “Our preparation is ongoing since the last World Cup,” he said, crediting consistent team selection for their recent successes. “We’ve maintained a similar squad in the last 5-6 series without significant changes.”

Addressing queries about Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma, Suryakumar emphasized flexibility. “When Sanju entered the scene, he batted higher. Now, aside from openers, flexibility is essential,” he explained.

Assuring minimal experimentation, Suryakumar stated, “We will stick to our successful process without making unnecessary changes.”

When asked about Rinku Singh’s status amid Shivam Dube’s rise, Suryakumar clarified, “Dube and Hardik, as all-rounders, play crucial roles. All batters from 3 to 7 can switch positions if needed.”

Regarding the series objectives, he emphasized maintaining current strategies. “The plan is to continue playing good cricket. There’s no need to alter what’s working.”

When questioned about the influence of dew and the toss, Suryakumar humorously referenced KL Rahul’s change in luck during tosses using a left-handed coin flip and joked, “I’ll try it with my left hand as well.”

Published on December 8, 2025