As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand at VCA Stadium in Nagpur on Wednesday (Jan 21), he joined an exlusive list of Indian players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya with 100+ T20I matches for India.

<p>As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand at VCA Stadium in Nagpur on Wednesday (Jan 21), he joined an exlusive list of Indian players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya with 100+ T20I matches for India.</p>

History made at toss: Surykumar joins exclusive list of Indian players

<p>Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.</p><h2>Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing</h2><p>Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-updated-points-table-and-qualifcation-scenarios-rcb-through-but-what-about-others-1768982858996">WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others</a></p><p>Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.”</p><h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-made-at-toss-surykumar-joins-exclusive-list-of-indian-players-with-100-or-more-t20i-matches-1769007652499">SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players</a></h2><p>As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.</p>

The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.

Ishan Kishan celebrated his return to India's T20I team with a four on the first ball he faced. Kishan came to bat in the second over after Sanju Samson was dismissed on a rather soft dismissal. Kishan got a slot ball first up by Kyle Jamieson and samshed it down the ground for a four during the first T20 vs New Zealand on Wednesday (Jan 21) at the VCA stadium in Nagpur. The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023. Kishan has skipper Suryakumar's backing Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. Also Read - WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: “Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play.” SKY joins exclusive list of Indian players As soon as Suryakumar Yadav walked out for toss in the first T20I vs New Zealand, he joined an exlusive list of Indian players. This was SKY's 100th T20I match for India - making him only the fourth player to acheive the milestone. Rohit leads the list with 159 appearance for India in T20Is, followed by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya with 125 matches each. Virat and Rohit, however, announced their retirement from the format after India's T20 World Cup title win in 2024 edition. Suryakumar was made India's captain as Rohit's replacement and will now lead India in 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champion. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starts Feb 7 with India taking on the USA.

<p>The innings, however, lasted only four more ball which included another four as well. Eventually, Kishan was dismissed for 8 runs off 5 ball, hitting two boundaries, in his first international match since Novemver 2023.</p>

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: 'Starts with 4, out four balls later': Kishan fails in first international match for India since November 2023

<p>In the first T20I of the five-match series between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Wednesday (Jan 21) became the fourth Indian cricketer to play 100 T20I matches. With this milestone, Yadav joined an elite list comprising Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit leads the chart with 159 appearances, while Kohli and Pandya have played 125 T20Is each.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Mumbai batter made his T20I debut in March 2021 against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In 100 matches so far, he has amassed 2,820 runs at an average of 35.25 and an impressive strike rate of 163.00. The 35-year-old is currently the third-highest run-scorer for India in the shortest format.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Most T20I matches for India</strong></h2><ul><li>Rohit Sharma - 159 matches</li><li>Virat Kohli - 125 matches</li><li>Hardik Pandya - 125* matches</li><li>Suryakumar Yadav - 100* matches</li><li>MS Dhoni - 98 matches</li></ul><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-upholds-bangladesh-s-demands-reassures-no-changes-in-t20-world-cup-schedule-1769003244672"><strong>ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule</strong></a></p><h2>Suryakumar Yadav’s T20I record against New Zealand</h2><p>Suryakumar has played nine T20I matches against New Zealand and has scored 316* runs, including one century and one half-century. His average against New Zealand in T20Is is an impressive 45.14.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-updated-points-table-and-qualifcation-scenarios-rcb-through-but-what-about-others-1768982858996"><strong>WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others</strong></a></p><h2>IND vs NZ, 1st ODI match update</h2><p>At the time of writing, India were 68 for two at the end of the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav were at the crease. India had a slow start as opener Sanju Samson was out for 10 runs. Ishan Kishan also failed to make an impact and was dismissed for eight runs by Jacob Duffy. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy (1/16) and Kyle Jamieson (1/30) picked up one wicket each.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With eight wickets remaining, India will aim to build a strong total. On the other hand, New Zealand will try to restrict India to a low score. It will be interesting to see how the New Zealand bowlers handle India’s powerful batting lineup.</p>

With this milestone, Suryakumar joined the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit has featured in 159 T20Is, while Kohli and Hardik have both played 125 matches. 

In the first T20I of the five-match series between India and New Zealand at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Wednesday (Jan 21) became the fourth Indian cricketer to play 100 T20I matches. With this milestone, Yadav joined an elite list comprising Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit leads the chart with 159 appearances, while Kohli and Pandya have played 125 T20Is each. The Mumbai batter made his T20I debut in March 2021 against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In 100 matches so far, he has amassed 2,820 runs at an average of 35.25 and an impressive strike rate of 163.00. The 35-year-old is currently the third-highest run-scorer for India in the shortest format. Most T20I matches for India Rohit Sharma - 159 matches Virat Kohli - 125 matches Hardik Pandya - 125* matches Suryakumar Yadav - 100* matches MS Dhoni - 98 matches Also Read - ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule Suryakumar Yadav’s T20I record against New Zealand Suryakumar has played nine T20I matches against New Zealand and has scored 316* runs, including one century and one half-century. His average against New Zealand in T20Is is an impressive 45.14. Also Read - WPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios - RCB through but what about others IND vs NZ, 1st ODI match update At the time of writing, India were 68 for two at the end of the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav were at the crease. India had a slow start as opener Sanju Samson was out for 10 runs. Ishan Kishan also failed to make an impact and was dismissed for eight runs by Jacob Duffy. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy (1/16) and Kyle Jamieson (1/30) picked up one wicket each. With eight wickets remaining, India will aim to build a strong total. On the other hand, New Zealand will try to restrict India to a low score. It will be interesting to see how the New Zealand bowlers handle India’s powerful batting lineup.

<p>With this milestone, Suryakumar joined the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya. Rohit has featured in 159 T20Is, while Kohli and Hardik have both played 125 matches.&nbsp;</p>

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Suryakumar joins Rohit, Virat in elite list as fourth Indian to achieve THIS milestone

From Abhishek Sharma to Sanju Samson, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with highest strike rates in T20Is. This list also includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh and SuryaKumar Yadav

<p>From Abhishek Sharma to Sanju Samson, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with highest strike rates in T20Is. This list also includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh and SuryaKumar Yadav</p>

From Abhishek Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 Indian batters with highest strike rates in T20Is

<p>India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed recalled batter Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot in the playing XI for first of 5 T20Is against New Zealand, set to be played on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. The series will be the last chance for India to tune up their preparation ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup which starts Feb 7 and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India enter the tournament as defending champions, having won the last edition in 2024. Kishan, who is part of the India's T20 world Cup squad as well, will have a shot at cementing his place in the playing XI for good.</p><h2>SKY confirms Kishan for number 3 slot</h2><p>Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: "Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play." Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. With Kishan at number 3, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is likely to back as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma -a position given to Gill before he was dropped.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-t20-world-cup-unaware-of-icc-deadline-bangladesh-sports-advisor-reaffirms-stance-against-travelling-to-india-1768905072648">BAN unaware of ‘ICC deadline’; sports advisor reaffirms T20 WC venue row stance</a></p><h2>Kishan's shot at redemption</h2><p>Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. He also hit two hundreds and two fifties with a personal best of 113 not out.</p><p>For India, Kishan had made his T20I debut in March 2021 and has played 32 matches so far - scoring 796 runs at an average of &nbsp;nearly 26 and a strike rate of 124 with six fifties and a personal best of 89. Apart from that, he has also played 27 ODIs and two Tests, scoring 933 and 78 runs, respectively.</p>

Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed recalled batter Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot in the playing XI for first of 5 T20Is against New Zealand, set to be played on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. The series will be the last chance for India to tune up their preparation ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup which starts Feb 7 and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India enter the tournament as defending champions, having won the last edition in 2024. Kishan, who is part of the India's T20 world Cup squad as well, will have a shot at cementing his place in the playing XI for good. SKY confirms Kishan for number 3 slot Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: "Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play." Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. With Kishan at number 3, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is likely to back as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma -a position given to Gill before he was dropped. Also Read - BAN unaware of ‘ICC deadline’; sports advisor reaffirms T20 WC venue row stance Kishan's shot at redemption Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. He also hit two hundreds and two fifties with a personal best of 113 not out. For India, Kishan had made his T20I debut in March 2021 and has played 32 matches so far - scoring 796 runs at an average of nearly 26 and a strike rate of 124 with six fifties and a personal best of 89. Apart from that, he has also played 27 ODIs and two Tests, scoring 933 and 78 runs, respectively.

<p>Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.</p>

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Skipper Suryakumar confirms Ishan Kishan at number 3

Meet the top five Indian batters with the most sixes against New Zealand in T20Is. From Rohit Sharma’s power to Suryakumar Yadav’s flair, these players changed games with big hits and fearless batting.


<p>Meet the top five Indian batters with the most sixes against New Zealand in T20Is. From Rohit Sharma’s power to Suryakumar Yadav’s flair, these players changed games with big hits and fearless batting.</p>

Meet 5 Indian batters with most T20I sixes against New Zealand

From Shreyas Iyer to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs against New Zealand. This list also includes KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav

<p>From Shreyas Iyer to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs against New Zealand. This list also includes KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav</p>

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most T20I runs against New Zealand

<p>The Indian team for the 2026 T20 World Cup was announced on Saturday (Dec 20) as the selectors’ panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, made a couple of bold decisions. The 15-man squad that will play in the 2026 T20 World Cup will not feature the likes of Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma, while Rinku Singh and Ishan Kishan have been granted wildcard entries. While a statement was made off the pitch, will there be an on-field statement as well with captain Suryakumar Yadav struggling for form?</p><h2><strong>Surya’s concerning form</strong></h2><p>Across the last nine innings for India and Mumbai (in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Suryakumar Yadav’s form has become a huge cause for concern for the management. During that period, he has scored 199 runs with an average of 24.88, raising concerns for the management. In his last 22 innings for India in T20Is, Surya’s form makes poor reading as well.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During this period, Surya's average of 13.37 across 22 innings, with a total of 254 runs and no fifties, underscores prolonged struggles. His only notable performance was an unbeaten 47 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage in Dubai.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The current India T20I captain’s last fifty for the national side came in Hyderabad against Bangladesh in October 2024. In fact, since becoming the captain of the Indian T20I side, he has managed to score only two fifties.</p><h2><strong>Why is Surya’s position in trouble?</strong></h2><p>Highly unlikely that a sitting captain will be dropped from the Playing XI for non-injury-related and rest issues; nothing is guaranteed in the Indian side. Rohit Sharma, India’s then Test captain during the 2024-25 Australia tour, was dropped from the Sydney Test in January. On Saturday, Shubman Gill, India’s current captain in Tests and ODIs and vice-captain in the T20Is, was dropped from the World Cup squad.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If the same pattern continues, another statement could be on the way from the Indian team management. Surya, however, will have to buckle up and improve his form with just one more series remaining before the 2026 T20 World Cup begins on Indian soil on February 7.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The likes of Ishan Kishan, Rinku Singh and Sanju Samson are awaiting their opportunities in the Playing XI with the World Cup on the horizon. While these players are unlikely to bat at No.4, given the circumstances, it won’t be a surprise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also, Surya’s future in the team will be an issue as well, considering he is keeping his position ahead of Shreyas Iyer and other key domestic performers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the captain remains in place for now, it would not be a shock if Axar Patel leads the team during the World Cup, with an in-form batter replacing Surya in the XI.</p>

Across the last nine innings for India and Mumbai (in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Suryakumar Yadav’s form has become a huge cause for concern for the management. During that period, he has scored 199 runs with an average of 24.88, raising concerns for the management.

The Indian team for the 2026 T20 World Cup was announced on Saturday (Dec 20) as the selectors’ panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, made a couple of bold decisions. The 15-man squad that will play in the 2026 T20 World Cup will not feature the likes of Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma, while Rinku Singh and Ishan Kishan have been granted wildcard entries. While a statement was made off the pitch, will there be an on-field statement as well with captain Suryakumar Yadav struggling for form? Surya’s concerning form Across the last nine innings for India and Mumbai (in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Suryakumar Yadav’s form has become a huge cause for concern for the management. During that period, he has scored 199 runs with an average of 24.88, raising concerns for the management. In his last 22 innings for India in T20Is, Surya’s form makes poor reading as well. During this period, Surya's average of 13.37 across 22 innings, with a total of 254 runs and no fifties, underscores prolonged struggles. His only notable performance was an unbeaten 47 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage in Dubai. The current India T20I captain’s last fifty for the national side came in Hyderabad against Bangladesh in October 2024. In fact, since becoming the captain of the Indian T20I side, he has managed to score only two fifties. Why is Surya’s position in trouble? Highly unlikely that a sitting captain will be dropped from the Playing XI for non-injury-related and rest issues; nothing is guaranteed in the Indian side. Rohit Sharma, India’s then Test captain during the 2024-25 Australia tour, was dropped from the Sydney Test in January. On Saturday, Shubman Gill, India’s current captain in Tests and ODIs and vice-captain in the T20Is, was dropped from the World Cup squad. If the same pattern continues, another statement could be on the way from the Indian team management. Surya, however, will have to buckle up and improve his form with just one more series remaining before the 2026 T20 World Cup begins on Indian soil on February 7. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Rinku Singh and Sanju Samson are awaiting their opportunities in the Playing XI with the World Cup on the horizon. While these players are unlikely to bat at No.4, given the circumstances, it won’t be a surprise. Also, Surya’s future in the team will be an issue as well, considering he is keeping his position ahead of Shreyas Iyer and other key domestic performers. While the captain remains in place for now, it would not be a shock if Axar Patel leads the team during the World Cup, with an in-form batter replacing Surya in the XI.

<p>Across the last nine innings for India and Mumbai (in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Suryakumar Yadav’s form has become a huge cause for concern for the management. During that period, he has scored 199 runs with an average of 24.88, raising concerns for the management.</p>

Selectors make statement by dropping Gill, but should India drop SKY from Playing XI amid poor form?

Chris Gayle, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, David Warner, and Virat Kohli lead T20 World Cup six-hitters. From towering hits to clever boundary clears, these players have dominated bowlers with big hitting.

<p>Chris Gayle, Rohit Sharma, Jos Buttler, David Warner, and Virat Kohli lead T20 World Cup six-hitters. From towering hits to clever boundary clears, these players have dominated bowlers with big hitting.</p>

From Chris Gayle to Rohit Sharma: 5 batters with most sixes in T20 World Cup history

<p>Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian team as the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Saturday (Dec 20). Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad. Ishan’s return to the T20I fold comes after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) win on Thursday.</p><h2><strong>Gill, Jitesh dropped from India squad</strong></h2><p>The announcement made on Saturday saw chief of selectors Agarkar and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announce the squad for both the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand series. Gill, who was struggling for form, was dropped in favour of Sanju Samson, who excelled in his opener’s position on Friday in the final T20I against South Africa. Gill was also suffering from a minor injury but was expected to be fit for the series and the T20 World Cup.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, Jitesh’s exclusion comes after Ishan’s rise in the domestic circuit, as selectors clearly went for form. Samson and Ishan will be the team’s two wicketkeeper options, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer not even considered.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046"><strong>From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Rinku Singh back, Axar Patel to be vice-captain</strong></h2><p>In an interesting choice, Rinku Singh returned to the fold despite being dropped from the South Africa series. However, needing back-up in the tail end of the innings, Rinku’s name came as a surprise inclusion. On the other hand, with Gill missing out, Axar Patel was given the vice-captain’s role and will act as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636"><strong>From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</strong></a></p><h2><strong>India's squad for T20 World Cup and T20I series against New Zealand</strong></h2><p>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan.</p>

Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.  

Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian team as the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Saturday (Dec 20). Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad. Ishan’s return to the T20I fold comes after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) win on Thursday. Gill, Jitesh dropped from India squad The announcement made on Saturday saw chief of selectors Agarkar and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announce the squad for both the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand series. Gill, who was struggling for form, was dropped in favour of Sanju Samson, who excelled in his opener’s position on Friday in the final T20I against South Africa. Gill was also suffering from a minor injury but was expected to be fit for the series and the T20 World Cup. On the other hand, Jitesh’s exclusion comes after Ishan’s rise in the domestic circuit, as selectors clearly went for form. Samson and Ishan will be the team’s two wicketkeeper options, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer not even considered. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Rinku Singh back, Axar Patel to be vice-captain In an interesting choice, Rinku Singh returned to the fold despite being dropped from the South Africa series. However, needing back-up in the tail end of the innings, Rinku’s name came as a surprise inclusion. On the other hand, with Gill missing out, Axar Patel was given the vice-captain’s role and will act as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes India's squad for T20 World Cup and T20I series against New Zealand Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan.

<p>Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. &nbsp;</p>

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan returns to Team India after SMAT heroics, Shubman Gill dropped amid poor form

<p>Former India batter Robin Uthappa thinks that head coach Gautam Gambhir's 'batting order is overrated in white-ball cricket' is holding for time-being only. Uthappa opined that as long as India continue to win matches, batting order won't matter but the idea can circle back and haunt both Gambhir and India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav.</p><p>“If this goes south, it’ll backfire on both Surya and Gautam Gambhir. And people are anyway gunning for his (Gambhir) head," said Uthappa on his YouTube channel.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-indian-vice-captain-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-after-wedding-call-off-1765452789672">I love..: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opens up after wedding call-off</a></p><p>As for Surya, Uthappa added: "Today it’s not affecting him because India is winning matches. He’s one of the most successful Indian captain right now with an 85 win percentage. But if that drops over the next nine games, then it starts impacting his batting and it starts impacting how he leads on the field as well."</p><p>India are currently 1-0 up in the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa. They also have a five-T20I series against New Zealand at home before the next year's T20 World Cup which they enter as the defending champions.</p><p>With nine matches left ahead of the marquee tournament which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.</p><p>In the first T20I against South Africa, India won on the back of all-round performance by Hardik Pandya who was returning from a injury lay-off. He scored an unbeaten 50 and took a wicket as well, subsequently named Player for the Match.</p><p>While Pandya's return is boost for India, the biggest question they face is wicketkeeper-batter. Rishabh Pant played in the T20 World Cup 2024 but has not played much T20Is after that. The current competition is between Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson and the next nine matches to be played by India could very decided the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for them.</p>

With nine matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.

Former India batter Robin Uthappa thinks that head coach Gautam Gambhir's 'batting order is overrated in white-ball cricket' is holding for time-being only. Uthappa opined that as long as India continue to win matches, batting order won't matter but the idea can circle back and haunt both Gambhir and India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav. “If this goes south, it’ll backfire on both Surya and Gautam Gambhir. And people are anyway gunning for his (Gambhir) head," said Uthappa on his YouTube channel. Also Read - I love..: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opens up after wedding call-off As for Surya, Uthappa added: "Today it’s not affecting him because India is winning matches. He’s one of the most successful Indian captain right now with an 85 win percentage. But if that drops over the next nine games, then it starts impacting his batting and it starts impacting how he leads on the field as well." India are currently 1-0 up in the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa. They also have a five-T20I series against New Zealand at home before the next year's T20 World Cup which they enter as the defending champions. With nine matches left ahead of the marquee tournament which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going. In the first T20I against South Africa, India won on the back of all-round performance by Hardik Pandya who was returning from a injury lay-off. He scored an unbeaten 50 and took a wicket as well, subsequently named Player for the Match. While Pandya's return is boost for India, the biggest question they face is wicketkeeper-batter. Rishabh Pant played in the T20 World Cup 2024 but has not played much T20Is after that. The current competition is between Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson and the next nine matches to be played by India could very decided the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for them.

<p>With nine matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.</p>

Uthappa says Gambhir's batting order remark will 'backfire' if India's winning run ends in T20Is

<p>India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has made it clear that Sanju Samson will have to compete with Jitesh Sharma for a place in the playing XI in the upcoming five-match series against South Arica. The first of five T20Is is set to be played on Tuesday (Dec 9) in Cuttack. Samson was promoted up the order as opener in absence of Shubman Gill but once India's Test and ODI skipper returned, Samson was pushed down in the middle order. With 2026 T20 World Cup less than three months away, Samson would be hoping to use any opportunity provided to cement his place.</p><h2>SKY on Sanju vs Jitesh in South Africa T20Is</h2><p>"We gave Sanju opportunities. He was ready to bat at any number, which is actually good to see a player being flexible to bat anywhere from No. 3 to 6. That's one thing I have told all the batters that other than openers, everyone has to be very flexible. Both [Samson and Jitesh] are in the scheme of things. It's always good to have lovely players like both of them. One can open, one can bat lower down the order. In fact, both can do all the roles. It's an asset to the team and a good headache to have," SKY said on the eve of the first match.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-amit-pasi-baroda-batter-playing-in-smat-posts-joint-highest-score-in-t20-debut-1765203464945">Amit Pasi, playing for Baroda in SMAT, posts joint-highest score in T20 debut</a></p><h2>Pandya, Gill set to return</h2><p>Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya both will be returning to the T20I side after recovering from their respective injuries. Both the players are set to be included in the playing XI right away which could open up a couple of selection headaches for Surya and the team management. India will be hoping to use the series as a preparation camp for upcoming World Cup where they will enter as the defending champions, having the win the trophy two years ago under Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

Samson was promoted up the order as opener in absence of Shubman Gill but once India's Test and ODI skipper returned, Samson was pushed down in the middle order. With 2026 T20 World Cup less than three months away, Samson would be hoping to use any opportunity provided to cement his place.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has made it clear that Sanju Samson will have to compete with Jitesh Sharma for a place in the playing XI in the upcoming five-match series against South Arica. The first of five T20Is is set to be played on Tuesday (Dec 9) in Cuttack. Samson was promoted up the order as opener in absence of Shubman Gill but once India's Test and ODI skipper returned, Samson was pushed down in the middle order. With 2026 T20 World Cup less than three months away, Samson would be hoping to use any opportunity provided to cement his place. SKY on Sanju vs Jitesh in South Africa T20Is "We gave Sanju opportunities. He was ready to bat at any number, which is actually good to see a player being flexible to bat anywhere from No. 3 to 6. That's one thing I have told all the batters that other than openers, everyone has to be very flexible. Both [Samson and Jitesh] are in the scheme of things. It's always good to have lovely players like both of them. One can open, one can bat lower down the order. In fact, both can do all the roles. It's an asset to the team and a good headache to have," SKY said on the eve of the first match. Also Read - Amit Pasi, playing for Baroda in SMAT, posts joint-highest score in T20 debut Pandya, Gill set to return Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya both will be returning to the T20I side after recovering from their respective injuries. Both the players are set to be included in the playing XI right away which could open up a couple of selection headaches for Surya and the team management. India will be hoping to use the series as a preparation camp for upcoming World Cup where they will enter as the defending champions, having the win the trophy two years ago under Rohit Sharma.

<p>Samson was promoted up the order as opener in absence of Shubman Gill but once India's Test and ODI skipper returned, Samson was pushed down in the middle order. With 2026 T20 World Cup less than three months away, Samson would be hoping to use any opportunity provided to cement his place.</p>

IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Samson or Jitesh? Skipper Surya says 'good headache to have'

From Jos Buttler to Glenn Maxwell, here's a look at the top five active batters with most sixes in T20Is. This list also includes Muhammad Waseem, Suryakumar Yadav and Babar Hayat

<p>From Jos Buttler to Glenn Maxwell, here's a look at the top five active batters with most sixes in T20Is. This list also includes Muhammad Waseem, Suryakumar Yadav and Babar Hayat</p>

From Jos Buttler to Glenn Maxwell, 5 active batters with most sixes in T20Is

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir has hinted at possible changes to the Indian team’s batting line-up in the T20I format as they prepare for the T20 World Cup, which starts in February. The Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will be out to defend the title they won in 2024 as they put together a strong side with just three months remaining for the tournament to start. However, according to Gambhir, batting orders are overrated except for the openers.</p><h2><strong>Gambhir hints at possible changes</strong></h2><p>“That has been the ideology from day one. When I took over as head coach in Sri Lanka till now, it has not changed,” Gambhir told the BCCI in an interview after India’s 2-1 series triumph in Australia.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Batting orders are very overrated, except the two openers. The rest, I think, shuffle because it’s not the amount of runs that matters in T20I cricket. It’s the impact that matters. People sometimes miscalculate or do not differentiate between runs and impact. In T20Is, it’s all about impact — it’s 120 balls, each ball is an event. And that’s why every ball needs to have the maximum impact we can have. That’s the reason, from day one, we’ve had a very fluid batting order. And that’s how we want to play this game as well.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046"><strong>From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian team made a string of experiments during the Australia vs India series recently, with Tilak Varma sitting out for one of the matches, while Jitesh Sharma was also preferred in the Playing XI. According to Gambhir, the middle order makes no sense in the shortest format as plans need to be tweaked according to playing style and requirements.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636"><strong>From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian team has two more series to prepare for the T20 World Cup as they face both South Africa and New Zealand in the build-up to the tournament. India will be the favourites to win the T20 World Cup and are yet to lose a T20I series or a tournament under Suryakumar Yadav. However, the latest statement means we could see significant changes to the Indian side ahead of the T20 World Cup.</p>

The Indian team made a string of experiments during the Australia vs India series recently, with Tilak Varma sitting out for one of the matches, while Jitesh Sharma was also preferred in the Playing XI. 

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has hinted at possible changes to the Indian team’s batting line-up in the T20I format as they prepare for the T20 World Cup, which starts in February. The Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will be out to defend the title they won in 2024 as they put together a strong side with just three months remaining for the tournament to start. However, according to Gambhir, batting orders are overrated except for the openers. Gambhir hints at possible changes “That has been the ideology from day one. When I took over as head coach in Sri Lanka till now, it has not changed,” Gambhir told the BCCI in an interview after India’s 2-1 series triumph in Australia. “Batting orders are very overrated, except the two openers. The rest, I think, shuffle because it’s not the amount of runs that matters in T20I cricket. It’s the impact that matters. People sometimes miscalculate or do not differentiate between runs and impact. In T20Is, it’s all about impact — it’s 120 balls, each ball is an event. And that’s why every ball needs to have the maximum impact we can have. That’s the reason, from day one, we’ve had a very fluid batting order. And that’s how we want to play this game as well.” ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The Indian team made a string of experiments during the Australia vs India series recently, with Tilak Varma sitting out for one of the matches, while Jitesh Sharma was also preferred in the Playing XI. According to Gambhir, the middle order makes no sense in the shortest format as plans need to be tweaked according to playing style and requirements. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The Indian team has two more series to prepare for the T20 World Cup as they face both South Africa and New Zealand in the build-up to the tournament. India will be the favourites to win the T20 World Cup and are yet to lose a T20I series or a tournament under Suryakumar Yadav. However, the latest statement means we could see significant changes to the Indian side ahead of the T20 World Cup.

<p>The Indian team made a string of experiments during the Australia vs India series recently, with Tilak Varma sitting out for one of the matches, while Jitesh Sharma was also preferred in the Playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

Gautam Gambhir hints at possible changes ahead of T20 World Cup, says 'batting orders are very overrated'

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir says there's still work to do before the team reaches at a certain level to compete in the upcoming T20 World Cup. India will be entering the tournament as defending champions, having won the tournament in 2024 under Rohit Sharma. Since the win, Rohit along with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja have retired from the format for India. India appointed Suryakumar Yadav as the new skipper under whom India won the Asia Cup 2025 - the only multi-team tournament they played. Most recently, India won the five-match T20I series against Australia 2-1 away from home.</p><h2>Gambhir on India's T20 World Cup preps</h2><p>"It has been a very transparent dressing room, it has been a very honest dressing room and that is how we want this dressing room to be. I think we still aren't where we want to be come the T20 World Cup," Gambhir said in a clip shared by BCCI.TV.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-raina-wants-csk-to-retain-jadeja-but-release-these-three-players-1762763574233">IPL 2026: Raina wants CSK to retain Jadeja but release THESE three players</a></p><p>The head coach also touched upon the important of fitness and said: "Hopefully guys know the importance of being fit. We still have three months to be where we want to be."</p><h2>India's next T20I assignment before World Cup</h2><p>Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.</p><p>India will definitely be a favorite to win the tournaments but would be wary of other teams, especially Australia, who had beaten India in the final of 2023 ODI World Cup final - which was also played in India. Nonetheless, T20 is different format in which any team is capable of beating the other team on its day.</p>

Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir says there's still work to do before the team reaches at a certain level to compete in the upcoming T20 World Cup. India will be entering the tournament as defending champions, having won the tournament in 2024 under Rohit Sharma. Since the win, Rohit along with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja have retired from the format for India. India appointed Suryakumar Yadav as the new skipper under whom India won the Asia Cup 2025 - the only multi-team tournament they played. Most recently, India won the five-match T20I series against Australia 2-1 away from home. Gambhir on India's T20 World Cup preps "It has been a very transparent dressing room, it has been a very honest dressing room and that is how we want this dressing room to be. I think we still aren't where we want to be come the T20 World Cup," Gambhir said in a clip shared by BCCI.TV. Also Read - IPL 2026: Raina wants CSK to retain Jadeja but release THESE three players The head coach also touched upon the important of fitness and said: "Hopefully guys know the importance of being fit. We still have three months to be where we want to be." India's next T20I assignment before World Cup Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka. India will definitely be a favorite to win the tournaments but would be wary of other teams, especially Australia, who had beaten India in the final of 2023 ODI World Cup final - which was also played in India. Nonetheless, T20 is different format in which any team is capable of beating the other team on its day.

<p>Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.</p>

Head coach Gautam Gambhir says India 'still aren't where we want' for upcoming T20 World Cup

From Glenn Maxwell to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in India vs Australia T20Is. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Shane Watson

<p>From Glenn Maxwell to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in India vs Australia T20Is. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Shane Watson</p>

Meet top 5 batters with most sixes in India vs Australia T20Is, check who tops the list

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially sanctioned Haris Rauf and Suryakumar Yadav for their involvement in a fiasco during the Asia Cup 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 4), the apex body of cricket has sanctioned the duo for Code of Conduct breach of ICC during the Asia Cup 2025, where the Men in Blue emerged victorious. On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah of India was handed one demerit point for his actions during an India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025.</p><h2><strong>ICC sanctions Rauf, Sky</strong></h2><p>In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 3) ICC stated: “The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed the outcomes of several Code of Conduct proceedings arising from matches played during the ICC Asia Cup 2025.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The hearings were conducted by members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees following incidents in the matches between India and Pakistan on 14, 21 and 28 September.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the ICC, Suryakumar Yadav was found guilty of a breach of Article 2.21 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to conduct that brings the game into disrepute. He was fined 30 per cent of his match fee and received two demerit points.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-laura-wolvaardt-to-jemimah-rodrigues-5-highest-individual-scores-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-alyssa-healy-pratika-rawal-phoebe-litchfield-1762156095237"><strong>From Laura Wolvaardt to Jemimah Rodrigues, 5 highest individual scores in Women’s ODI World Cup 2025</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, in a hearing conducted by ICC Match Referee Richie Richardson, Haris Rauf was again found guilty of a breach of Article 2.21. He was fined 30 per cent of his match fee and received two additional demerit points.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This takes Rauf’s total to four demerit points within a 24-month period, resulting in two suspension points under the ICC’s disciplinary framework. In accordance with the Code, Rauf is therefore suspended for Pakistan’s ODI games against South Africa on 4 and 6 November 2025.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-outstanding-laura-wolvaardt-continues-to-impress-takes-spot-in-icc-odi-women-s-batters-ranking-1762248693495"><strong>Outstanding Laura Wolvaardt continues to impress, takes top spot in ICC ODI women's batters ranking</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s Jasprit Bumrah also accepted a charge under Article 2.21 for conduct that brings the game into disrepute and the proposed sanction of an official warning, which resulted in one demerit point. As he accepted the sanction, no formal hearing was required.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The two giants of the game met three times in September, including the final of the Asia Cup 2025. The rivalry was a one-sided affair during the tournament as India won all three matches, including a tight affair in the summit clash.</p>

In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 4), the apex body of cricket has sanctioned the duo for Code of Conduct breach of ICC during the Asia Cup 2025, where the Men in Blue emerged victorious.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially sanctioned Haris Rauf and Suryakumar Yadav for their involvement in a fiasco during the Asia Cup 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 4), the apex body of cricket has sanctioned the duo for Code of Conduct breach of ICC during the Asia Cup 2025, where the Men in Blue emerged victorious. On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah of India was handed one demerit point for his actions during an India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025. ICC sanctions Rauf, Sky In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 3) ICC stated: “The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed the outcomes of several Code of Conduct proceedings arising from matches played during the ICC Asia Cup 2025. “The hearings were conducted by members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees following incidents in the matches between India and Pakistan on 14, 21 and 28 September.” According to the ICC, Suryakumar Yadav was found guilty of a breach of Article 2.21 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to conduct that brings the game into disrepute. He was fined 30 per cent of his match fee and received two demerit points. ALSO READ | From Laura Wolvaardt to Jemimah Rodrigues, 5 highest individual scores in Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 On the other hand, in a hearing conducted by ICC Match Referee Richie Richardson, Haris Rauf was again found guilty of a breach of Article 2.21. He was fined 30 per cent of his match fee and received two additional demerit points. This takes Rauf’s total to four demerit points within a 24-month period, resulting in two suspension points under the ICC’s disciplinary framework. In accordance with the Code, Rauf is therefore suspended for Pakistan’s ODI games against South Africa on 4 and 6 November 2025. ALSO READ | Outstanding Laura Wolvaardt continues to impress, takes top spot in ICC ODI women's batters ranking India’s Jasprit Bumrah also accepted a charge under Article 2.21 for conduct that brings the game into disrepute and the proposed sanction of an official warning, which resulted in one demerit point. As he accepted the sanction, no formal hearing was required. The two giants of the game met three times in September, including the final of the Asia Cup 2025. The rivalry was a one-sided affair during the tournament as India won all three matches, including a tight affair in the summit clash.

<p>In a statement released on Tuesday (Nov 4), the apex body of cricket has sanctioned the duo for Code of Conduct breach of ICC during the Asia Cup 2025, where the Men in Blue emerged victorious.</p>

ICC sanctions Haris Rauf, Suryakumar Yadav for Code of Conduct breaches during Asia Cup 2025

<p>In the third T20I match between India and Australia at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart, Suryakumar Yadav on Sunday (Nov 2) finally won his first toss on the Australia tour, and he could not hide his joy. The Indian captain even hugged Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh, after the coin fell in his favour. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Jitesh Sharma, Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar in place of Sanju Samson, Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-world-cup-final-indw-vs-saw-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-navi-mumbai-check-out-weather-report-1762059414422"><strong>Women’s World Cup Final, INDW vs SAW: Will rain play spoilsport in Navi Mumbai? Check out weather report</strong></a></p><h2>Watch the viral video below -</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The prayers work for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>! 🙏😄<br><br>The coin flips in Suryakumar Yadav&#39;s favour and India will field first! 🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 👉 3rd T20I | LIVE NOW 👉 <a href="https://t.co/JJaBX22Idf">https://t.co/JJaBX22Idf</a> <a href="https://t.co/RvSRtXfVhz">pic.twitter.com/RvSRtXfVhz</a></p>&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1984900533644357654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India vs Australia, 3rd T20I</h2><p>After winning the toss, India sent Australia in to bat. The hosts got off to a poor start, losing Travis Head (6), captain Mitchell Marsh (11) and Josh Inglis (1) during the powerplay. However, Tim David (74) and Marcus Stoinis (64) rescued the innings with a solid partnership and guided Australia to a total of 186/6. Matthew Short also added an unbeaten 26 at the end.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For India, Arshdeep Singh shone with the ball, taking three important wickets for 35 runs, while Varun Chakaravarthy claimed two for 33.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-t20i-social-media-buzzes-over-arshdeep-singh-return-india-make-3-changes-harshit-rana-benched-1762072233918"><strong>IND vs AUS 3rd T20I: Social media buzzes over Arshdeep Singh’s return; India make 3 changes, Harshit benched</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At the time of writing, India were 64/2 in six overs, with captain Suryakumar Yadav (19) and Tilak Varma (2) at the crease. For Australia, Nathan Ellis picked up two important wickets of both the Indian openers. India still needed 123 runs in 84 balls to win this match with eight wickets in hand, while Australian bowlers will be looking for quick breakthroughs to stay in the game.</p>

After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Jitesh Sharma, Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar in place of Sanju Samson, Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav. 

In the third T20I match between India and Australia at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart, Suryakumar Yadav on Sunday (Nov 2) finally won his first toss on the Australia tour, and he could not hide his joy. The Indian captain even hugged Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh, after the coin fell in his favour. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Jitesh Sharma, Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar in place of Sanju Samson, Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav. Also Read - Women’s World Cup Final, INDW vs SAW: Will rain play spoilsport in Navi Mumbai? Check out weather report Watch the viral video below -

<p>After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Jitesh Sharma, Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar in place of Sanju Samson, Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;</p>

IND vs AUS: Suryakumar Yadav’s first toss win in Australia goes viral - WATCH

From Abhishek Sharma to SuryaKumar Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with highest strike rate in T20Is. This list also includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh and Tilak Varma

<p>From Abhishek Sharma to SuryaKumar Yadav, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with highest strike rate in T20Is. This list also includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh and Tilak Varma</p>

Meet top 5 Indian batters with highest strike rate in T20Is, check who tops the list

<p>The first of five T20Is between India and Australia on Wednesday (Oct 29)was called off because of persistent rain in Canberra. India were 97/1 in 9.4 overs when the rain stopped play for good with skipper Suryakumar Yadav batting on 39 off 24 alongside Shubman Gill on 37 off 20. The next match of the series will be played day after tomorrow on Friday (Oct 31) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Both team will be looking to make full use of the next match to take an early lead in what has turned into a four-match series.</p><h2>SKY shows glimpse of older self</h2><p>India were asked to bat first after Australia won the toss. The visitors were off to a good start, having scored 35 runs in less than four overs before Nathan Ellis removed dangerous looking Abhishek Sharma (19 off 14). Skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who had been under lot of scrutiny for his batting form since being named captain, showed glimpses of his older self. SKY added 67 runs with Gill for the second wicket before the game was called off for good post another rain delay.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1stt20i-suryakumar-becomes-second-indian-to-hit-150-t20i-sixes-after-rohit-1761734695839">IND vs AUS, 1stT20I: SKY second Indian to achieve THIS milestone after Rohit</a></p><h2>India make Arshdeep sit out for Harshit</h2><p>With Jasprit Bumrah coming into the squad after sitting out the T20Is, he found himself in the playing XI automatically. Bumrah's inclusion meant someone had to sit out and Harshit Rana was picked ahead of Arshdeep Singh. The call raised some questions as Arshdeep has been India's frontline T20I bowler for quite some time now.</p><p>Arshdeep (101) is the only Indian bowler to have more than 100 T20I wickets - even five more than Bumrah's 96 T20I wickets. Rana, who played under India head coach Gambhir in IPL franchise KKR, has, on the other hand, played only three T20I and taken only five wickets.</p>

IND vs AUS, 1st T20I: Persistent rain washed out the first of five matches in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29). The next match of the series will be played on Friday (Oct 31) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). India were 97/1 in 9.4 overs when the rain stopped play.

The first of five T20Is between India and Australia on Wednesday (Oct 29)was called off because of persistent rain in Canberra. India were 97/1 in 9.4 overs when the rain stopped play for good with skipper Suryakumar Yadav batting on 39 off 24 alongside Shubman Gill on 37 off 20. The next match of the series will be played day after tomorrow on Friday (Oct 31) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Both team will be looking to make full use of the next match to take an early lead in what has turned into a four-match series. SKY shows glimpse of older self India were asked to bat first after Australia won the toss. The visitors were off to a good start, having scored 35 runs in less than four overs before Nathan Ellis removed dangerous looking Abhishek Sharma (19 off 14). Skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who had been under lot of scrutiny for his batting form since being named captain, showed glimpses of his older self. SKY added 67 runs with Gill for the second wicket before the game was called off for good post another rain delay. Also Read - IND vs AUS, 1stT20I: SKY second Indian to achieve THIS milestone after Rohit India make Arshdeep sit out for Harshit With Jasprit Bumrah coming into the squad after sitting out the T20Is, he found himself in the playing XI automatically. Bumrah's inclusion meant someone had to sit out and Harshit Rana was picked ahead of Arshdeep Singh. The call raised some questions as Arshdeep has been India's frontline T20I bowler for quite some time now. Arshdeep (101) is the only Indian bowler to have more than 100 T20I wickets - even five more than Bumrah's 96 T20I wickets. Rana, who played under India head coach Gambhir in IPL franchise KKR, has, on the other hand, played only three T20I and taken only five wickets.

<p>IND vs AUS, 1st T20I: Persistent rain washed out the first of five matches in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29). The next match of the series will be played on Friday (Oct 31) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). India were 97/1 in 9.4 overs when the rain stopped play.</p>

IND vs AUS: Rain washes out first T20I in Canberra

<p>India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav came into the Australia T20I series with a burden of not performing as a batter. The skipper, however, shed off the concerns with a fluent unbeaten 24-ball 39 till the time rain paused the play in the first T20I on Wednesday (Oct 29). During his innings, Surya had also hit two taking an took his overall tally to 150 sixes in T20Is. SKY, as he is fondly called, is only the second Indian batter to reach the landmark behind Rohit Sharma and fifth overall. Rohit, who has retired from T20Is, leads the list currently with 205 sixes in T20Is.</p><h2>SKY reaches 150 T20I sixes</h2><p>The 39 not out against Australia is SKY's second best individual score since his 75 in October 2024 against Bangladesh. The batter was at his fluent best in Canberra with ball coming nicely onto the bat. SKY hit two sixes to reach 39 - which took his tally to 150 in all T20Is.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Milestone unlocked 🔓<br><br>1️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ sixes and counting for Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> in T20Is 🔥<br><br>Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/VE4FvHCa1u">https://t.co/VE4FvHCa1u</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/wyLphOxwII">pic.twitter.com/wyLphOxwII</a></p>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1983473279131320427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Rohit (205) currently is on top of most sixes in T20Is list, followed by UAE's Muhammed Waseem (187), New Zealand's Martin Guptill (173), and England's Jos Buttler (172). SKY rounds up top five with 150.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-t20i-arshdeep-singh-omission-irks-fans-netizens-bash-head-coach-gambhir-over-biased-selection-1761729227469">Arshdeep’s omission irks fans, netizens bash Gambhir over ‘biased selection’</a></p><h2>India make Arshdeep sit out for Harshit</h2><p>With Jasprit Bumrah coming into the squad after sitting out the T20Is, he found himself in the playing XI automatically. Bumrah's inclusion meant someone had to sit out and Harshit Rana was picked ahead of Arshdeep Singh. The call raised some questions as Arshdeep has been India's frontline T20I bowler for quite some time now.</p><p>Arshdeep (101) is the only Indian bowler to have more than 100 T20I wickets - even five more than Bumrah's 96 T20I wickets. Rana, who played under India head coach Gambhir in IPL franchise KKR, has, on the other hand, played only three T20I and taken only five wickets.</p>

The 39 not out against Australia is SKY's second best individual score since his 75 in October 2024 against Bangladesh. The batter was at his fluent best in Canberra with ball coming nicely onto the bat. SKY hit two sixes to reach 39 - which took his tally to 150 in all T20Is.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav came into the Australia T20I series with a burden of not performing as a batter. The skipper, however, shed off the concerns with a fluent unbeaten 24-ball 39 till the time rain paused the play in the first T20I on Wednesday (Oct 29). During his innings, Surya had also hit two taking an took his overall tally to 150 sixes in T20Is. SKY, as he is fondly called, is only the second Indian batter to reach the landmark behind Rohit Sharma and fifth overall. Rohit, who has retired from T20Is, leads the list currently with 205 sixes in T20Is. SKY reaches 150 T20I sixes The 39 not out against Australia is SKY's second best individual score since his 75 in October 2024 against Bangladesh. The batter was at his fluent best in Canberra with ball coming nicely onto the bat. SKY hit two sixes to reach 39 - which took his tally to 150 in all T20Is.

<p>The 39 not out against Australia is SKY's second best individual score since his 75 in October 2024 against Bangladesh. The batter was at his fluent best in Canberra with ball coming nicely onto the bat. SKY hit two sixes to reach 39 - which took his tally to 150 in all T20Is.</p>

IND vs AUS, 1st T20I: Amid batting form concerns, Suryakumar becomes second Indian to achieve THIS milestone after Rohit

<p>Australia batter Travis Head, often India's nemesis in big matches, has fired a warning to Suryakumar Yadav-led ahead on the eve of &nbsp;five-match T20I series between the two sides. The Aussies are fired up after winning the three-match ODI series 2-1 but India have history on their side. The Men in Blue haven't lost a single T20I series Down Under and their recent Asia Cup 2025 title win in the same format would definitely give them confidence against the home side. For India, Jasprit Bumrah also comes back in the side after sitting out the ODI series.</p><h2>Head's warning to India before T20I series</h2><p>"You don’t want to be chewing up balls up at the start when you’ve got (Tim) David, (Marcus) Stoinis, (Josh) Inglis, (Cameron) Green and (Glenn) Maxwell behind you. It’s huge power,” he said while talking to cicket.com.au.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-hits-out-at-rohit-kohli-critics-calls-them-cockroaches-1761655822523">AB de Villiers hits out at Rohit-Kohli critics, calls them 'cockroaches'</a></p><p>"We can score anything if we can get going. So, for Mitch (Marsh) and I (the plan is to) try and go out there and take advantage of it (Powerplay fielding restrictions). It’s been a strength of ours for a couple of years, that if you look at both one-day cricket and T20 cricket we’ve put a big emphasis on the Powerplay,” added Head.</p><h2>India vs Australia in T20Is Down Under</h2><p>India have played 12 T20I matches against Australia in Australia and have won seven of them with four losses and one ending in No Result. India did lose their last T20I game in Australia against the home team but the loss came back in 2020. Before that, India had lost to Australia in November 2018 that too just by four runs.</p><p>As for the series, India have never lost a T20I series in Australia. In fact, Australia have just won only one T20I against India, when they won two-match series 2-0 back in 2018/19 in India.&nbsp;</p>

India have never lost a T20I series in Australia. In fact, Australia have just won only one T20I against India, when they won two-match series 2-0 back in 2018/19 in India. 

Australia batter Travis Head, often India's nemesis in big matches, has fired a warning to Suryakumar Yadav-led ahead on the eve of five-match T20I series between the two sides. The Aussies are fired up after winning the three-match ODI series 2-1 but India have history on their side. The Men in Blue haven't lost a single T20I series Down Under and their recent Asia Cup 2025 title win in the same format would definitely give them confidence against the home side. For India, Jasprit Bumrah also comes back in the side after sitting out the ODI series. Head's warning to India before T20I series "You don’t want to be chewing up balls up at the start when you’ve got (Tim) David, (Marcus) Stoinis, (Josh) Inglis, (Cameron) Green and (Glenn) Maxwell behind you. It’s huge power,” he said while talking to cicket.com.au. Also Read - AB de Villiers hits out at Rohit-Kohli critics, calls them 'cockroaches' "We can score anything if we can get going. So, for Mitch (Marsh) and I (the plan is to) try and go out there and take advantage of it (Powerplay fielding restrictions). It’s been a strength of ours for a couple of years, that if you look at both one-day cricket and T20 cricket we’ve put a big emphasis on the Powerplay,” added Head. India vs Australia in T20Is Down Under India have played 12 T20I matches against Australia in Australia and have won seven of them with four losses and one ending in No Result. India did lose their last T20I game in Australia against the home team but the loss came back in 2020. Before that, India had lost to Australia in November 2018 that too just by four runs. As for the series, India have never lost a T20I series in Australia. In fact, Australia have just won only one T20I against India, when they won two-match series 2-0 back in 2018/19 in India.

<p>India have never lost a T20I series in Australia. In fact, Australia have just won only one T20I against India, when they won two-match series 2-0 back in 2018/19 in India.&nbsp;</p>

Travis Head doesn't want batters 'chewing up balls' as Australia aim maiden T20I series win vs India at home

<p>Suryakumar Yadav vows to treat the forthcoming five-match T20I series against Australia as an extension of their ongoing process of preparing the best side for the home World Cup next year. Speaking to the media ahead of the first game in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29), the Indian T20I skipper SKY said the team is wary of the playing conditions; instead of taking it as a separate overseas challenge, they will use this as a chance to formalise the combination.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“There is not much change in combination. Last time when we went to South Africa, there also we played with one fast bowler, one all-rounder and three spinners. So, conditions are similar — bouncy tracks,” Suryakumar said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-referee-chris-broad-alleges-icc-of-blatant-leniency-towards-india-accuses-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-1761630656241"><strong>Former referee Chris Broad alleges ICC of ‘blatant leniency’ towards India, accuses Ganguly of…</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier, the SKY-led Indian Team won this edition’s Asia Cup (played in the T20 format) in Dubai, beating Pakistan in the final. With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Our preparation (for T20 World Cup 2026) obviously started with the Asia Cup. Because since then, we started playing T20s. And it will continue like this,” he said. “We are not looking like we have come to a foreign country to play. So, we will see this series in a different way. We will look at it in the same way. It’s a build-up to the World Cup,” he added.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, all T20Is will take place on the east coast, with Manuka Oval hosting the opener. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will stage the second game two days later, before the action moves to Hobart (3rd T20I) and Gold Coast (4th T20I) for the next two games. The Gabba in Brisbane will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 8).&nbsp;</p><h3>India’s T20I squad for Australia series –</h3><p>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar</p>

With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under.

Suryakumar Yadav vows to treat the forthcoming five-match T20I series against Australia as an extension of their ongoing process of preparing the best side for the home World Cup next year. Speaking to the media ahead of the first game in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29), the Indian T20I skipper SKY said the team is wary of the playing conditions; instead of taking it as a separate overseas challenge, they will use this as a chance to formalise the combination. “There is not much change in combination. Last time when we went to South Africa, there also we played with one fast bowler, one all-rounder and three spinners. So, conditions are similar — bouncy tracks,” Suryakumar said. Also read | Former referee Chris Broad alleges ICC of ‘blatant leniency’ towards India, accuses Ganguly of… Earlier, the SKY-led Indian Team won this edition’s Asia Cup (played in the T20 format) in Dubai, beating Pakistan in the final. With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under. “Our preparation (for T20 World Cup 2026) obviously started with the Asia Cup. Because since then, we started playing T20s. And it will continue like this,” he said. “We are not looking like we have come to a foreign country to play. So, we will see this series in a different way. We will look at it in the same way. It’s a build-up to the World Cup,” he added. Meanwhile, all T20Is will take place on the east coast, with Manuka Oval hosting the opener. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will stage the second game two days later, before the action moves to Hobart (3rd T20I) and Gold Coast (4th T20I) for the next two games. The Gabba in Brisbane will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 8). India’s T20I squad for Australia series – Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar

<p>With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under.</p>

Suryakumar plays down ‘foreign conditions’ threat ahead of Australia T20Is; vows to treat it as…

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir's aggressiveness during his playing days is well documented. He is now bringing the same mentality to the Indian team and doesn't mind losing a few games, especially in T20Is. Gambhir's comments came two days before the five-match series against Australia which begins October 29. Recently, India won the Asia Cup 2025 title under Gambhir as coach who had taken on the role over from Rahul Dravid post India's 2024 T20 World Cup title victory. Gambhir's real test as the coach would be the next year's T20 World Cup of which India's a co-host as well.</p><h2>Gambhir on India's T20I cricket style</h2><p>"We will not fear losing. I don’t aim to be the most successful coach; I want us to be the most fearless team," the Indian coach said during an interview on JioHotstar.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-team-needed-me-in-australia-veteran-india-batter-rahane-breaks-silence-on-test-snub-1761573431223">Team needed me in Australia,' India batter Rahane breaks silence on Test snub</a></p><p>"Surya and I consistently agree: we will never fear mistakes. The bigger the game, the more fearless and aggressive we must be. A conservative approach only gives the opposition an advantage. With the talent we have, if we play fearlessly, we will be fine,” Gambhir added.</p><h2>Surya's form a concern</h2><p>Suryakumar became the India skipper post the 2024 T20 World Cup and India has not lost a bilateral T20I series since. Surya's batting form, however, has been a cause of concern since he became the skipper. In 22 innings since becoming the captain, Surya has scored only 330 runs at an average of 18 against his career average of 37. His strike rate as the captain has also gone down to 142 compared to 164 before that.</p><p>As the leader of the side, Surya has scored a fifty only twice in last year and a half and the second of those two fifties came more than an year ago. in Asia Cup 2025, Surya's highest was 47 not out but he was able to score in double digits only once more in the tournament - 12 against Sri Lanka in the last Super Four stage match.</p>

Recently, India won the Asia Cup 2025 title under Gambhir as coach who had taken on the role over from Rahul Dravid post India's 2024 T20 World Cup title victory. Gambhir's real test as the coach would be the next year's T20 World Cup.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir's aggressiveness during his playing days is well documented. He is now bringing the same mentality to the Indian team and doesn't mind losing a few games, especially in T20Is. Gambhir's comments came two days before the five-match series against Australia which begins October 29. Recently, India won the Asia Cup 2025 title under Gambhir as coach who had taken on the role over from Rahul Dravid post India's 2024 T20 World Cup title victory. Gambhir's real test as the coach would be the next year's T20 World Cup of which India's a co-host as well. Gambhir on India's T20I cricket style "We will not fear losing. I don’t aim to be the most successful coach; I want us to be the most fearless team," the Indian coach said during an interview on JioHotstar. Also Read - Team needed me in Australia,' India batter Rahane breaks silence on Test snub "Surya and I consistently agree: we will never fear mistakes. The bigger the game, the more fearless and aggressive we must be. A conservative approach only gives the opposition an advantage. With the talent we have, if we play fearlessly, we will be fine,” Gambhir added. Surya's form a concern Suryakumar became the India skipper post the 2024 T20 World Cup and India has not lost a bilateral T20I series since. Surya's batting form, however, has been a cause of concern since he became the skipper. In 22 innings since becoming the captain, Surya has scored only 330 runs at an average of 18 against his career average of 37. His strike rate as the captain has also gone down to 142 compared to 164 before that. As the leader of the side, Surya has scored a fifty only twice in last year and a half and the second of those two fifties came more than an year ago. in Asia Cup 2025, Surya's highest was 47 not out but he was able to score in double digits only once more in the tournament - 12 against Sri Lanka in the last Super Four stage match.

<p>Recently, India won the Asia Cup 2025 title under Gambhir as coach who had taken on the role over from Rahul Dravid post India's 2024 T20 World Cup title victory. Gambhir's real test as the coach would be the next year's T20 World Cup.</p>

Ahead of Australia T20Is, Gambhir backs India's aggressive style and says he doesn't 'aim to be the most successful coach'

<p>Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav is not concerned about his captaincy stint as he struggles for form in recent matches. However, that pressure could get intensified as Shubman Gill’s rise continues in Indian cricket. Now the captain of the Test and ODI side, Gill has been touted to succeed Surya in the T20I format after enjoying a successful last few months. Despite excelling for India, Gill will serve deputy to Sky in the T20I format with just a few months remaining for the T20 World Cup.</p><h2><strong>Surya not concerned about losing captaincy</strong></h2><p>"I am very happy for him that he has become captain in two formats. He has done really well," Suryakumar told The Indian Express on Friday. He spoke about the strong bond he shares with Gill on and off the field: "I won't lie, everyone feels that fear. But it is the kind of fear that keeps you motivated. The camaraderie between me and him (Shubman Gill) is amazing off the field and on it. I know what kind of player and human he is. So it just motivates me to do well, but I am happy for him."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933"><strong>Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While India start their Australia tour on Sunday with the first ODI in Perth, it will be the T20I format that will be of huge interest for Surya and Gill. The duo was instrumental in India’s Asia Cup 2025 success last month and will have a key role to play as the T20 World Cup will start in February.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Unlike Surya, who is just part of the T20I set-up, Gill will feature in both the ODI and T20I formats for India in Australia.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874"><strong>From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Eyes on Virat-Rohit</strong></h2><p>Away from Surya-Gill, eyes will also be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who return to the Indian team for the first time since March. They last featured for India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final, where India defeated New Zealand. Since that final, both Virat and Rohit announced their Test retirement and are only available in the ODI format, with an eye also on the 2027 ODI World Cup.</p>

The duo of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav was instrumental in India’s Asia Cup 2025 success last month and will have a key role to play as the T20 World Cup will start in February.

Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav is not concerned about his captaincy stint as he struggles for form in recent matches. However, that pressure could get intensified as Shubman Gill’s rise continues in Indian cricket. Now the captain of the Test and ODI side, Gill has been touted to succeed Surya in the T20I format after enjoying a successful last few months. Despite excelling for India, Gill will serve deputy to Sky in the T20I format with just a few months remaining for the T20 World Cup. Surya not concerned about losing captaincy "I am very happy for him that he has become captain in two formats. He has done really well," Suryakumar told The Indian Express on Friday. He spoke about the strong bond he shares with Gill on and off the field: "I won't lie, everyone feels that fear. But it is the kind of fear that keeps you motivated. The camaraderie between me and him (Shubman Gill) is amazing off the field and on it. I know what kind of player and human he is. So it just motivates me to do well, but I am happy for him." ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more While India start their Australia tour on Sunday with the first ODI in Perth, it will be the T20I format that will be of huge interest for Surya and Gill. The duo was instrumental in India’s Asia Cup 2025 success last month and will have a key role to play as the T20 World Cup will start in February. Unlike Surya, who is just part of the T20I set-up, Gill will feature in both the ODI and T20I formats for India in Australia. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Eyes on Virat-Rohit Away from Surya-Gill, eyes will also be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who return to the Indian team for the first time since March. They last featured for India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final, where India defeated New Zealand. Since that final, both Virat and Rohit announced their Test retirement and are only available in the ODI format, with an eye also on the 2027 ODI World Cup.

<p>The duo of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav was instrumental in India’s Asia Cup 2025 success last month and will have a key role to play as the T20 World Cup will start in February.</p>

Suryakumar Yadav opens up on losing T20I captaincy to Shubman Gill, says 'it motivates me'

<p>India are just days away from facing Australia in the first of the three ODIs and the hosts, known for their hostile and aggressiveness, appear to mock India's recent no-handshake policy against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025. In a video doing round on the social media, Aussie players feature in the clip where they are seemingly mocking India's stance. The Indian team had taken the stand in the wake of horrific Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 and the video of Aussie mocking such a sensitive issue is definitely distasteful.</p><p><strong>Also Read </strong>- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overconfidence-or-just-not-important-aussie-skipper-marsh-looking-at-india-series-as-pre-cursor-to-ashes-1760344935786">Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes</a></p><h2>Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture</h2><p>In a video uploaded by Kayo Sports, the anchor can be seen saying: "We all know India is on its way. But we've identified one critical weakness (no handshake gesture). We know that they're not huge fans of the traditional greeting (handshake), so we can throw them off before we've even bowled a ball," he added before a few of the Aussie players are featured doing different greeting gestures. Have a look at the video below:</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">AUS players pre-India clip mocks India no-handshake theatre vs Pak. Why Aussie media &amp; players laughing at stance sold as national pride? <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MithunManhas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MithunManhas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikrantgupta73</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rawatrahul9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rawatrahul9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mufaddal_vohra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PadmajaJoshi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PadmajaJoshi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivAroor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivAroor</a> <a href="https://t.co/lSbuyhEcui">pic.twitter.com/lSbuyhEcui</a></p>&mdash; Maham Fazal (@MahamFazal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahamFazal_/status/1978126585828982793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India vs Australia tour details and squad</h2><p><strong>India ODI squad vs Australia:</strong> Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal</p><p><strong>India T20I squad vs Australia:</strong> Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar</p><p><strong>India vs Australia ODI schedule:</strong> 1st ODI on Oct 19 (Perth), 2nd ODI on Oct 23 (Adelaide), 3rd ODI on Oct 25 (Sydney)</p><p><strong>India vs Australia T20I schedule: </strong>1st T20I on Oct 29 (Canberra), 2nst T20I on Oct 31 (Melbourne), 3rd T20I on Nov 2 (Hobart), 4th T20I on Nov 6 (Gold Coast), 5th T20I on Nov 8 (Brisbane)</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

India start Australia tour with a three-match ODI series which is followed by a five-match T20I series. The first match of the tour, an ODI, is set to be played on October 19 in Perth.

India are just days away from facing Australia in the first of the three ODIs and the hosts, known for their hostile and aggressiveness, appear to mock India's recent no-handshake policy against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025. In a video doing round on the social media, Aussie players feature in the clip where they are seemingly mocking India's stance. The Indian team had taken the stand in the wake of horrific Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 and the video of Aussie mocking such a sensitive issue is definitely distasteful. Also Read - Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture In a video uploaded by Kayo Sports, the anchor can be seen saying: "We all know India is on its way. But we've identified one critical weakness (no handshake gesture). We know that they're not huge fans of the traditional greeting (handshake), so we can throw them off before we've even bowled a ball," he added before a few of the Aussie players are featured doing different greeting gestures. Have a look at the video below:

<p>India start Australia tour with a three-match ODI series which is followed by a five-match T20I series. The first match of the tour, an ODI, is set to be played on October 19 in Perth.</p>

Days ahead of 1st ODI, Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025 - WATCH

From Ravindra Jadeja to Hardik Pandya here is a look at five active Indian batters with most ODI runs without a hundred. The list also features the likes of Axar Patel, Suryakumar Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. 

<p>From Ravindra Jadeja to Hardik Pandya here is a look at five active Indian batters with most ODI runs without a hundred. The list also features the likes of Axar Patel, Suryakumar Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

From Ravindra Jadeja to Hardik Pandya, 5 active Indian batters with most ODI runs without a hundred

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Oct 4) announced India’s T20I squad for the five-match series against Australia, starting on Oct 29. Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead as the captain, while Shubman Gill has been named as the vice-captain once again. Hardik Pandya, who missed the Asia Cup 2025 final due to a quadricep injury, has been rested for this series and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy comes into the squad as his replacement. Apart from the Reddy's entry, India have retained the same team that won the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, earlier this month.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Hardik is still recovering and will begin his rehab at the Centre of Excellence next week. He further said that this break will give Nitish a good opportunity to prove himself.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-odis-nitish-reddy-gets-maiden-call-up-bumrah-rested-check-full-squad-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-1759570877137"><strong>IND vs AUS ODIs: Nitish Reddy gets maiden call up, Bumrah rested - Check full squad</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Hardik won’t be fit for Australia due to the injury he picked up before the Asia Cup final. We’ll know more once he starts rehab at the COE next week. This series gives Nitish Kumar an opportunity to step in,” Agarkar said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Agarkar also discussed about the workload management of Jasprit Bumrah and said that Bumrah was rested from the ODI squad to avoid workload on him and this will also reduce the risk of injury.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We’ve already rested him for ODIs. Whenever possible, we manage workloads to minimize injury risk. Others like Siraj also bowl a lot, so managing all bowlers is a priority,” he added.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Check - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-bowlers-in-latest-icc-t20i-rankings-2025-varun-chakaravarthy-jacob-duffy-adam-zampa-akeal-hosein-adil-rashid-1759491230982"><strong>From Varun Chakaravarthy to Adam Zampa, top 5 bowlers in latest ICC T20I rankings 2025</strong></a></p><h2><strong>India’s T20I squad for Australia tour</strong></h2><p>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar</p><h2>India vs Australia - T20I fixtures</h2><ul><li><strong>1st T20I</strong> - Oct 29 (Manuka Oval)</li><li><strong>2nd T20I</strong> - Oct 31 (MCG)</li><li><strong>3rd T20I</strong> - Nov 2 (Bellerive Oval)</li><li><strong>4th T20I</strong> - Nov 6 (Gold Coast Stadium)</li><li><strong>5th T20I</strong> - Nov 8 (The Gabba)</li></ul>

India last toured Australia in 2024-25 for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which Australia won 3-1

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Oct 4) announced India’s T20I squad for the five-match series against Australia, starting on Oct 29. Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead as the captain, while Shubman Gill has been named as the vice-captain once again. Hardik Pandya, who missed the Asia Cup 2025 final due to a quadricep injury, has been rested for this series and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy comes into the squad as his replacement. Apart from the Reddy's entry, India have retained the same team that won the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, earlier this month. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Hardik is still recovering and will begin his rehab at the Centre of Excellence next week. He further said that this break will give Nitish a good opportunity to prove himself. Also Read - IND vs AUS ODIs: Nitish Reddy gets maiden call up, Bumrah rested - Check full squad “Hardik won’t be fit for Australia due to the injury he picked up before the Asia Cup final. We’ll know more once he starts rehab at the COE next week. This series gives Nitish Kumar an opportunity to step in,” Agarkar said. Agarkar also discussed about the workload management of Jasprit Bumrah and said that Bumrah was rested from the ODI squad to avoid workload on him and this will also reduce the risk of injury. “We’ve already rested him for ODIs. Whenever possible, we manage workloads to minimize injury risk. Others like Siraj also bowl a lot, so managing all bowlers is a priority,” he added. Also Check - From Varun Chakaravarthy to Adam Zampa, top 5 bowlers in latest ICC T20I rankings 2025 India’s T20I squad for Australia tour Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar India vs Australia - T20I fixtures 1st T20I - Oct 29 (Manuka Oval) 2nd T20I - Oct 31 (MCG) 3rd T20I - Nov 2 (Bellerive Oval) 4th T20I - Nov 6 (Gold Coast Stadium) 5th T20I - Nov 8 (The Gabba)

<p>India last toured Australia in 2024-25 for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which Australia won 3-1</p>

IND vs AUS T20Is: BCCI announces same squad as Asia Cup 2025 except THIS change

<p>Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Men in Blue beat Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday (Sep 28). In a final played at the Dubai International Stadium, India beat Pakistan by five wickets to lift their ninth Asia Cup title. After the win, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his social media handle and congratulated the squad. In reply, Suryakumar was full of praise for Modi, stating he was the one batting and scoring for the nation.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a> on the games field. <br><br>Outcome is the same - India wins!<br><br>Congrats to our cricketers.</p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1972373287985401858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Suryakumar Yadav full of praise for Modi</strong></h2><p>“It feels good when the country’s leader himself bats on the front foot; it felt like he took the strike and scored runs. It was great to see, and when sir is standing in front, then definitely the players will play freely,” Suryakumar told ANI.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The most important thing is that the whole country is celebrating. When we go back (to India), it will feel good, and we will get more inspiration and motivation to do well,” the Indian skipper added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874"><strong>From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the win on Sunday, PM Modi had tweeted, “#OperationSindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same - India wins! Congrats to our cricketers.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A well-compiled half-century by Tilak Varma and his useful partnerships with Sanju Samson and Shivam Dube helped Team India secure their second T20I Asia Cup title and overall ninth title, including the ODI editions, beating Pakistan by five wickets in a nail-biting final at Dubai on Sunday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933"><strong>Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Suryakumar-led Team India continued its rampaging run in T20Is, having won 18 T20Is and dropped just two and tied two ever since it first wore the captaincy armband. Kuldeep Yadav (4/30) sent Pakistan into a shocking collapse, from 113/1 to 146 all out, despite a fine 84-run opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan (57 in 38 balls, with five fours and three sixes) and Fakhar Zaman (46 in 35 balls, with two fours and two sixes).</p>

After the win, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his social media handle and congratulated the squad. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for Modi, stating he was the one batting and scoring for the nation.

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Men in Blue beat Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday (Sep 28). In a final played at the Dubai International Stadium, India beat Pakistan by five wickets to lift their ninth Asia Cup title. After the win, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his social media handle and congratulated the squad. In reply, Suryakumar was full of praise for Modi, stating he was the one batting and scoring for the nation.

<p>After the win, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his social media handle and congratulated the squad. In reply, Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for Modi, stating he was the one batting and scoring for the nation.</p>

'Country’s leader himself bats on the front foot': Suryakumar Yadav heaps praise on PM Modi after Asia Cup win

<p>India registered a dominating win over Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 with a five-wicket win on Sunday (September 28), extending their dominance in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. The win was marked not only by clinical performances on the field but also by a lighthearted moment off it, when India captain Suryakumar Yadav found himself in the spotlight during the post-match press conference.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A Pakistani journalist attempted to steer the conversation toward a political angle, asking Suryakumar for his views beyond cricket. The batter, known for his easygoing persona, responded with a tongue-in-cheek line: <i>“</i>Should I speak or not, you are getting angry. I didn't get what you are trying to ask. You asked me four questions."—before breaking into a laugh that set off chuckles across the room.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-final-2025-pakistan-captain-salman-ali-agha-claims-suryakumar-yadav-shook-hands-in-private-what-happened-at-the-asia-cup-1759120632343"><strong>Asia Cup Final 2025: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha claims Suryakumar Yadav shook hands in 'private'. What Happened at&nbsp;the&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;Cup?</strong></a></p><h2>Watch Suryakumar Yadav's reply to Pakistan journalist</h2>

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<p>Coming to the match, India beat Pakistan by five wickets in a thrilling final at Dubai. Tilak Varma's brilliant 69* off 53 balls, alongside contributions from Sanju Samson (24) and Shivam Dube (33), guided India to a chase of 147. After an early collapse that saw India struggling at 20/3, Tilak anchored the innings, building important partnerships to steer India toward victory. Pakistan had set a modest target after a collapse following a strong opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46), with Kuldeep Yadav’s superb 4/30 demolishing Pakistan's middle order.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s chase faltered early with dismissals of Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shubman Gill, but Tilak's steady knock and Dube’s counter-attacking innings brought them back into contention. In the final overs, Tilak and Dube kept the pressure on, with Dube hitting a crucial six before being dismissed. With 10 needed off the final over, Tilak and Rinku Singh saw India home with a boundary, securing the win in 19.4 overs. Kuldeep's magic and India’s effort with the ball, including Bumrah’s timely strikes, ensured Pakistan's total was restricted to 146.</p>

Asia Cup Final 2025: 'Should I speak or not, you are getting...': Suryakumar Yadav's tongue-in-cheek reply to Pakistan journalist | WATCH

India registered a dominating win over Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 with a five-wicket win on Sunday (September 28), extending their dominance in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. The win was marked not only by clinical performances on the field but also by a lighthearted moment off it, when India captain Suryakumar Yadav found himself in the spotlight during the post-match press conference. A Pakistani journalist attempted to steer the conversation toward a political angle, asking Suryakumar for his views beyond cricket. The batter, known for his easygoing persona, responded with a tongue-in-cheek line: “Should I speak or not, you are getting angry. I didn't get what you are trying to ask. You asked me four questions."—before breaking into a laugh that set off chuckles across the room. Also Read: Asia Cup Final 2025: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha claims Suryakumar Yadav shook hands in 'private'. What Happened at the Asia Cup? Watch Suryakumar Yadav's reply to Pakistan journalist

<p>In the Asia Cup final, India beat Pakistan by five-wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (September 28). The Men in Blue, led by Suryakumar Yadav, defended their title</p>

<p>Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, shared his thoughts on the interactions between him and India's captain, Suryakumar Yadav, during the Asia Cup, claiming that Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with him in private at the beginning of the tournament but refrained from doing so in front of the cameras. "He shook hands with me in private at the start of the tournament," Agha was quoted as saying to the reporters after the final. "Both at the pre-tournament press conference and when we met in the referee's meeting. But when they're out in front of the cameras, they don't shake our hands. I'm sure he's following the instructions he's been given, but if it was up to him, he'd shake hands with me," he added.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Agha also expressed his disappointment over certain actions during the tournament. "What India has done in this tournament is very disappointing," he said. "They're not disrespecting us by not shaking hands—they're disrespecting cricket. Good teams don't do what they did today. We went to pose with the trophy on our own because we wanted to fulfill our obligations. We stood there and took our medals. I don't want to use harsh words, but they've been very disrespectful. This is the first time I've ever seen this happen. Whatever happened in this tournament was very bad, and I hope it stops at some stage because it's bad for cricket," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-final-2025-pakistan-captain-salman-ali-agha-skipped-presentation-but-says-india-disrespecting-cricket-1759118436682"><strong>Asia Cup Final 2025: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha skipped press conferences but says India 'disrespecting&nbsp;cricket'</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Agha also reflected on the broader impact such actions could have on cricket fans, especially the younger generation. “I'm not just a Pakistan captain, I'm a cricket fan. If a kid is watching in India or Pakistan, we're not sending them a good message. People think of us as role models, but if we're behaving like this, we're not inspiring them. What happened shouldn't have happened, but you should ask the people (India) responsible for this rather than me.”</p>

The Indian team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav defended the Asia Cup title after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in Dubai on Sunday (September 28). Tilak Varma was also named Man of the Match for his unbeaten 69 off 53 balls

Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, shared his thoughts on the interactions between him and India's captain, Suryakumar Yadav, during the Asia Cup, claiming that Suryakumar Yadav shook hands with him in private at the beginning of the tournament but refrained from doing so in front of the cameras. "He shook hands with me in private at the start of the tournament," Agha was quoted as saying to the reporters after the final. "Both at the pre-tournament press conference and when we met in the referee's meeting. But when they're out in front of the cameras, they don't shake our hands. I'm sure he's following the instructions he's been given, but if it was up to him, he'd shake hands with me," he added. Agha also expressed his disappointment over certain actions during the tournament. "What India has done in this tournament is very disappointing," he said. "They're not disrespecting us by not shaking hands—they're disrespecting cricket. Good teams don't do what they did today. We went to pose with the trophy on our own because we wanted to fulfill our obligations. We stood there and took our medals. I don't want to use harsh words, but they've been very disrespectful. This is the first time I've ever seen this happen. Whatever happened in this tournament was very bad, and I hope it stops at some stage because it's bad for cricket," he added. Also Read: Asia Cup Final 2025: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha skipped press conferences but says India 'disrespecting cricket' Agha also reflected on the broader impact such actions could have on cricket fans, especially the younger generation. “I'm not just a Pakistan captain, I'm a cricket fan. If a kid is watching in India or Pakistan, we're not sending them a good message. People think of us as role models, but if we're behaving like this, we're not inspiring them. What happened shouldn't have happened, but you should ask the people (India) responsible for this rather than me.”

<p>The Indian team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav defended the Asia Cup title after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in Dubai on Sunday (September 28). Tilak Varma was also named Man of the Match for his unbeaten 69 off 53 balls</p>

Asia Cup Final 2025: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha claims Suryakumar Yadav shook hands in 'private'. What Happened at the Asia Cup?

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