India captain Suryakumar Yadav has said that the limited overs' side is looking forward to the challenge posed by the T20 World Cup 2026 already, as the assessment
for team combinations started with an Asia Cup triumph. Now with the upcoming five-match series against Australia, Suryakumar believes that the Men in Blue are building a team for the future, which can help them defend their World Cup title.
On playing in Australia, the 35-year-old has reckoned that he himself has been working really hard on his game and fitness and did a few good training sessions ahead of the commencement of the series. With a lot of flexible options in the side, he believes that the batting positions may keep on changing, but it will be done by keeping in mind what is the best possible thing for making the team win.
"It's [Australia] a beautiful country to play cricket. We're regrouping again. The team looks good, atmosphere is good. We had good fun on the ground in the last two days. Really looking forward to this tournament. I've been working really hard. Good few sessions back home, good two, three sessions here. I live for this, I ride for this. Towards a team goal, it's more important what team wants from you in different situations. And I take one game at a time. And if it starts, then I think it will be a good thing," Suryakumar told BCCI.
"There are so many options. You have fast bowling, spinners, and all the time, from top to No. 7 - everyone is flexible anywhere. They can bat at any position. So, whatever the combination is, the goal is only that India should win. The team is working towards something really special," he added.
Good to have Jasprit Bumrah in the squad: Suryakumar
The Mumbai-born also spoke on the presence of someone like star bowler Jasprit Bumrah in the 16-man squad, as the Men in Blue prepare to take up the challenge of a five-match series Down Under. The Indian skipper also noted that the team has already started the preparations for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be held at home.
"I think the way he's [Japrit Bumrah] played his cricket for the last so many years, he's kept himself right on the top. Good to have him in the squad when we play in Australia. It's a build up to the 2026 T20 World Cup. But at the same time, a good challenge to have going forward. And if you're playing 5 T20, I think we're going to enjoy it a lot," Suryakumar concluded.
The first match of the 20-over series will be played on Wednesday, October 29 at the Manuka Oval, Canberra.
