Ex-selector calls Suryakumar's appointment over Hardik a bold move
Former selector S Sharath labelled the appointment of Suryakumar Yadav as T20I captain over Hardik Pandya a bold move by Ajit Agarkar's committee.
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.
CricHubb Take
The two bold calls in quick succession, first elevating Suryakumar then replacing him with Shreyas Iyer, show that India's selection panel now prioritises tactical fit over established hierarchy when naming limited-overs captains.