Suryakumar Yadav Discusses Team Dynamics Ahead of T20 Series Against South Africa

In a recent discussion, Suryakumar Yadav addressed the exclusion of Rinku despite his strong performances, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the batting order. He also shared insights into India's long-term preparations for the T20 World Cup, which began well before the tournament's start. With the T20I series against South Africa approaching, Suryakumar expressed confidence in maintaining their successful strategies. The series kicks off in Cuttack, with matches scheduled across various cities, culminating in Ahmedabad. Read on for a detailed overview of the team's plans and match schedule.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 8, 2025, 15:38 IST

Suryakumar on Dube's Role and Rinku's Absence

Despite Rinku's commendable performances in his limited international appearances, he has not been included in the upcoming series. Suryakumar highlighted the significance of flexibility in the middle order, particularly regarding Dube's contributions. "Dube is an all-rounder. All batters from positions 3 to 7 can adapt to any batting order. For instance, Tilak Verma might bat at number 6. As seen in Australia, Dube batted at number 3. The entry point for each batter is crucial, and we need to maintain flexibility. Overall, the team composition looks promising and robust, which makes me quite pleased," the captain stated.

Rinku has participated in 35 T20 internationals, accumulating 550 runs with an average of 42.30 and an impressive strike rate of 161.76, including three half-centuries. In contrast, Dube has played 46 T20Is, scoring 607 runs and taking 21 wickets.

Preparations for the T20 World Cup

Suryakumar also discussed India's strategy leading up to the next T20 World Cup, emphasizing that preparations have been in progress for several months. "We began our preparations for the T20 World Cup right after the conclusion of the 2024 edition. You cannot start gearing up for a major tournament just a month or two in advance. Our efforts began long ago, and we have been experimenting with new strategies that have been beneficial so far," he explained.

India will kick off their title defense at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 with a high-profile night match against the United States at Mumbai's renowned Wankhede Stadium on February 7, setting the stage for an exciting opening day of cricket across the subcontinent.

Focus on the South Africa T20I Series

Regarding the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, Suryakumar mentioned that the team intends to stick with their successful approach. "As we prepare for the T20 series, we have no intention of changing our winning formula. If something is working well, why alter it? We enjoy playing together and delivering quality cricket, and that’s what matters," he remarked.

India vs South Africa: Complete T20I Schedule

The five-match T20I series will commence in Cuttack on Tuesday. The teams will then head to New Chandigarh for the second match on December 11, followed by Dharamsala on December 14. Lucknow will host the fourth T20I on December 17, and the series will conclude in Ahmedabad on December 19.