Saba Karim Questions Suryakumar Yadav's Place in Team Ahead of 2028 T20 World Cup

Suryakumar Yadav's Recent Performance Under Scrutiny

Former Indian cricketer and selector Saba Karim has expressed doubts about Suryakumar Yadav's inclusion in the national team, especially with the selectors focusing on the upcoming 2028 T20 World Cup. Despite having a few notable performances against New Zealand earlier this year and a crucial innings in the T20 World Cup opener against the USA, the 35-year-old has struggled to find consistent form. In the IPL, Yadav managed only 270 runs at a strike rate of 147.54 over 13 matches, with just two half-centuries to his name.

Karim remarked, “Given his current performance, Suryakumar may not align with the selection committee's vision for the future. We've seen the committee move on from players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the past, and a similar shift could occur as we approach the 2028 T20 World Cup.” He further noted that Yadav's inconsistent form during the World Cup has persisted into the IPL season, suggesting that selectors need to consider new options.

Potential Candidates for India's Next Captain

Saba Karim On Next India Captain

Karim has identified Rajat Patidar, who led the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to consecutive IPL titles, as a potential candidate for the captaincy of the Indian team. However, Patidar has yet to make his T20I debut. Karim stated, “I believe Rajat Patidar should be considered for the captaincy. Winning back-to-back IPL titles is no small feat, and he has done so with great composure.”

He praised Patidar's ability to manage a team filled with international stars, emphasizing the challenges of leading such a diverse group. Karim also mentioned other candidates for the leadership role, including Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer. “Shreyas Iyer is definitely a strong candidate, along with Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. There will be a few strong contenders for the captaincy,” he added.

However, Karim expressed skepticism about Hardik Pandya's chances, citing concerns regarding his leadership skills. “The selectors have raised doubts about Hardik Pandya’s leadership. Although the Mumbai Indians reached the playoffs last season, questions about his leadership style remain. Based on current form, I don’t see him justifying his position as captain of the Indian team,” he concluded.