Gautam Gambhir likely to take final call on Suryakumar Yadav’s future as T20 captain: Report

India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav’s future will now reportedly be decided by head coach Gautam Gambhir, as the national selection committee is not fully convinced about his place in the team even as a batter.

Suryakumar, who has been struggling with form for nearly a year, is under serious pressure after a poor run in the T20 World Cup and IPL 2026. According to a PTI report, there is a growing view among BCCI selectors that India may need to move on from him before the 2028 LA Olympics.

However, Gambhir’s strong relationship with Suryakumar is expected to play a key role in the final decision. The head coach is said to be comfortable working with SKY, which could decide whether he continues as captain or not.

"Initially the selectors thought that IPL would help Suryakumar regain form like last edition when he crossed 700 runs. But strangely there hasn't been any technical course correction in his game. Even the rookiest of pacers are just bowling straight hard lengths and he has no answer. Selectors don't see him playing the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. It is as simple as that," a senior BCCI source told PTI.

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Meanwhile, the BCCI source also said Suryakumar’s numbers are a major concern. He managed only 210 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 148, with an average below 18, a sharp drop for a player known for his explosive batting.

“If he cannot secure his place as a batter, then how can he continue as captain? That is the question,” the source said.

Who will be SKY's successor?

The report also suggests that discussions around his successor have already started inside the board. Shreyas Iyer is seen as one strong option. However, there are concerns about how he would fit into Gambhir’s coaching setup.

Shubman Gill is another leading candidate. He has impressed with his leadership in the IPL and was earlier seen as a long-term captaincy option for India across formats by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.

Tilak Varma is also gaining support within the system, especially after being given leadership roles in India A setups. HoweverBut for now, it is understood that Gambhir is likely to back SKY to continue as captain even though he has seen a dip in his performances.