IND vs SA T20 Series: Before the T20 match between India and South Africa to be held in Cuttack, Team India captain Suryakumar Yadav answered many important questions in the pre-match press conference. The main discussion on this occasion was who would be handed over the opening batting. Sanju Samson or Shubman Gill? The captain put an end to this debate and shared his views. Apart from this, he also gave many hints regarding playing 11 and batting order.

Keeping in mind the preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, Team India has focused on its combination in this series. Suryakumar told that the team does not want to make much changes and their focus is only on the way of playing and the strategy of the match. He said, “We will not make much changes in the combination. Our focus is only on what kind of cricket we want to play.”

Suryakumar Yadav’s decision on opening batsman

On the question of who will salute between Sanju Samson and Shubman Gill, the captain said that both the players have a place in the team and both are flexible. He said about Sanju Samson, “Sanju is a batsman who can play higher up the order. He has done well as an opener. Shubman played before Sanju because he deserved that place, but we made sure that Sanju also got opportunities.” It is clear from this statement that the captain has confidence in both the players and wants to maintain balance in the team.

batting order flexibility

In response to questions asked on the batting order, Suryakumar Yadav said that apart from the openers, other players will have to remain flexible. They will have to adjust according to the circumstances. He said, “Both of them (Gill and Sanju) are part of our plan and can play multiple roles. They are an asset for the team and also a good headache.”

The captain also told that before the T20 World Cup, the team has to play 10 T20 matches against two strong teams. So right now the focus is on those matches and as the tournament approaches, the team will gradually focus its attention on the World Cup.

Preparation for T20 World Cup

Team India is testing its strategy and the condition of its players through the T20 series. Suryakumar Yadav made it clear that the team’s objective is not only to win this series, but also to be ready for the World Cup. The role of both the openers is important for the team and it will be interesting to see how effective Suryakumar’s plan proves to be in the match.

These statements of the team captain also show that special attention is being paid to balance, flexibility and strategy in the team, so that India can emerge as a strong team in the T20 World Cup 2026.