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Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has said that T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav’s extended run without significant scores will create internal scrutiny, although adding that the Australian conditions might favour him and can mark his return to form. Suryakumar‘s recent performance has been concerning, with only 72 runs in seven games during September’s Asia Cup T20 tournament, including his highest score of 47* against arch-rivals Pakistan. Since becoming India’s T20I skipper in July last year, Suryakumar’s form has declined, scoring 330 runs with only two fifties. “This Australian tour presents an interesting scenario. While team victories often overshadow individual performances, any downturn in results will raise questions. As India’s T20I captain and someone who’s been the number one-ranked batter in T20Is for a long period of time, Suryakumar’s extended run without significant scores at No. 3 will create internal scrutiny,” Nayar said while speaking on JioHotstar. “We know his calibre and impact potential, and Australian conditions with their bounce and pace should benefit his batting style. Ultimately, the biggest questions will come from within, as this current output does not reflect his true capabilities,” Nayar said. Captain Suryakumar will look to let the batter in him take charge and make a strong statement with the bat as India face Australia in the first T20I in Canberra on Wednesday. The former Indian cricketer emphasised the importance of the upcoming series for newcomers in the team who will be playing Down Under for the first time. “This T20I series in Australia will be a significant test for many of our young players, as it marks their first experience of playing T20Is against a team of this calibre in such conditions,” Nayar said. “While the environment differs from what they will encounter in the World Cup, it presents a fresh challenge and a valuable opportunity for new heroes to emerge. It is a chance for several players to step up, gain confidence and build momentum with runs under their belt,” Nayar added.
