India captain Suryakumar Yadav sounded upbeat as the team gets ready for the first T20I against South Africa. One big reason behind that confidence is the return of Hardik Pandya, whose presence brings balance and experience as India builds towards the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Hardik is back in the side after recovering from a quadriceps injury picked up during the Asia Cup last September. Since then, he has returned to domestic cricket with Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and looked in strong rhythm. On Sunday, he was one of the first players to hit the nets in Cuttack.
Another positive boost for India is the return of vice-captain Shubman Gill, now fully fit after a neck injury during the South Africa Test series in Kolkata.
Hardik’s Experience Strengthens Team Balance
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Suryakumar praised Hardik’s value to the squad, especially with the ball.
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He said, “Both of them look healthy and fit. They have come along with the team. What you saw in Asia Cup also was when he opened the bowling with the new ball, he opened up a lot of options and combinations for us with respect to the playing eleven.”
“So that’s what he brings to the table and his experience is invaluable. He has done well in a lot of good games, big games and ICC and ACC events also. So that experience counts for a lot and his presence will definitely give a good balance to the side.”
Suryakumar Yadav Clears The Debate Between Shubman Gill And Sanju Samson
Gill is expected to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, giving India stability at the top. Suryakumar also explained how the team moved from using Sanju Samson as an opener to giving Gill the role.
He said, “In terms of Sanju, when he came on the circuit, he batted higher up the order. Now the thing is, other than the openers, everyone has to be very flexible. He did really well when he opened the innings, but Shubman had played before him in the Sri Lanka series and so he deserved to take that spot.”
“But we gave Sanju enough opportunities – he’s ready to bat at any number, which is good to see – any player who’s ready and flexible to bat anywhere from three to six. I have told batters other than the openers that you have to be flexible to bat.”
“So, both are in the scheme of things – it’s lovely to have players like them be a part of the squad. One can open, the other can bat lower down the order – even both can do all the roles. So they are a good asset for our team and a good headache to have.”
Flexible Batting Line Up Key to India’s T20 Strategy
Suryakumar wrapped up by highlighting that India prefers a flexible batting approach rather than rigid batting positions. According to him, versatility will be the strength of this team moving forward.
“(Shivam) Dube is an all-rounder, so as Hardik and you can’t compare all-rounders with finishers. The thing is, all the batters from 3 to 7 are capable of batting at any position. For example, you might see Tilak Verma batting at six.”
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“As you saw in Australia, Dubey went in to bat at number three. It depends on the entry point of the batter. We have to be really flexible during that. Before us, you get to know how the squad will be. More likely, this is what the team and the squad looks like. It looks good. It looks strong. So, I am very happy with it.”
India looks confident, settled, and ready to take the field against South Africa with a balanced squad and clear plans. The road to the 2026 T20 World Cup has begun, and with players returning to full fitness, things are shaping up well for the men in blue.
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