Ex-selector calls Suryakumar's appointment over Hardik a bold move

Former selector S Sharath described the decision to appoint Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain ahead of Hardik Pandya as a bold move by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. Sharath told the Indian Express that Suryakumar was chosen for his character and team-man qualities after Rohit Sharma stepped down.

Under Suryakumar's leadership India did not lose a single T20 bilateral series, winning eight and drawing one with South Africa. He also led the side to the 2025 Asia Cup title and defended the T20 World Cup in 2026. Sharath noted that Hardik's contributions remained significant in both T20 World Cup campaigns.

After the 2026 T20 World Cup, Suryakumar was replaced by Shreyas Iyer as the selection committee made another bold call despite the team's success.