"India have one match-winner after another in the side, and no other team has this luxury" : Mohammad Kaif

Captain Suryakumar Yadav has made a sensational comeback to form in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, auguring well for the Indian team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026. Mohammad Kaif shared his thoughts on Suryakumar’s batting position, captaincy, and India’s chances of repeating history.

Mohammad Kaif elaborated on Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s batting position:

“Suryakumar Yadav’s record at number four has been exceptional. So, I think he is more suited to that position. However, in situations where the opening partnership is going well and the openers get through the Powerplay, or even beyond that, I feel Surya should come in at number three. If your most experienced batter gets to face more deliveries, it is better

for India. If a wicket falls early, when the ball is still new, you can send Tilak Varma in at number three. But if there is a strong partnership at the top, Surya should be the next batter to come in.”

On what sets Suryakumar apart as Captain:

“Surya’s camaraderie with the players is excellent. The way he stays constantly in touch with them stands out. I remember an instance when, even after India had won the game, he was speaking to the players and discussing areas where they could improve for the next match. That shows his passion as Captain. He is a proper leader who takes everyone along with him, and his record as a Captain is outstanding. His winning percentage is quite high as well.”

On India’s chances of defending their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title at home:

“India have a very balanced side. They are playing at home, so they will have strong local support. The crowds will come in large numbers, and the fans have always backed the team. They are also the defending champions, having won the T20 World Cup last time, so there will be a lot of excitement among the fans. You look at the names, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, all of them are in very good form. Then, there are Bumrah, Varun and Kuldeep in the bowling attack, and the list goes on. India have one match-winner after another in the side, and no other team has this luxury. With the quality they have, I think India should win the T20 World Cup.”