Former South African fast-bowling legend Dale Steyn believes Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership style has become a powerful force for India, one that makes players feel secure, valued, and willing to adjust for the team’s needs.
With Gautam Gambhir pushing for a flexible, dynamic approach, India continues to shuffle their batting order, including their captain. Suryakumar has moved between No. 3 and No. 4, and in the opening T20I against South Africa, he walked in at one-down, embracing the tactical shift.
Steyn, speaking on JioStar, said the biggest strength of Suryakumar’s captaincy is that players don’t feel insecure under him.
“When you feel backed by your captain and team, you communicate openly. You’re not threatened by your spot. Surya is secure, welcoming, and willing to adjust for the greater good,” Steyn explained.
“If he asks someone to bat at six instead of three, the player understands — because the captain has supported him earlier. That kind of leader brings out the best in his group.”
While Steyn praised Suryakumar’s leadership, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa highlighted Hardik Pandya’s importance to India’s T20 World Cup plans.
After missing nearly two months with a quadriceps injury, Hardik returned with a statement performance in the opening T20I—an explosive 59 off 28* and a crucial wicket — helping India crush South Africa by 101 runs.
Uthappa believes India rely heavily on Hardik’s rare skillset:
“Hardik is an out-and-out match-winner. His balance is unmatched, whether for India, IPL or white-ball cricket. His return was massive.”
He also pointed out how rare it is to see India field two pace-bowling all-rounders, Hardik and Shivam Dube together, something that makes the setup even more dangerous heading into the World Cup.
