The captain of the India National Cricket Team for T20Is discussed the team’s X-factor ahead of the first match against Sri Lanka, highlighting Riyan Parag as a key player with unique potential for the series starting on July 27. This series marks Suryakumar Yadav’s debut as captain following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from T20Is after the 2024 World Cup victory.
India’s squad is well-balanced, offering a chance to refine the core team for the T20 World Cup 2026. However, the selection of young all-rounder Riyan Parag has sparked debate. Despite competing with Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma, and others for a spot, Parag’s recent performance in the T20I series against Zimbabwe was underwhelming, leading to some criticism.
Riyan Parag getting an opportunity over big names depicts that selectors are looking at him as the future. He, since the last few months, has performed exceptionally well in the domestic circuit as well as in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, where he represents Rajasthan Royals.
Riyan Parag was the third-highest run-scorer in IPL 2024, amassing 573 runs in 16 matches, including four half-centuries. His standout performances in crucial games were instrumental in leading Rajasthan Royals to the playoffs.
Before the first T20I against Sri Lanka, Suryakumar Yadav lauded Riyan Parag and explained his selection. Suryakumar highlighted Parag’s special qualities, stating at the press conference, “Riyan Parag possesses a unique X-factor.”
I have always had a special bond with Gautam Gambhir – Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav also talked about his bond with head coach Gautam Gambhir. He said that they share a special relationship and know each other’s body language pretty well. He explained:”I have always have had a special bond with Gautam Gambhir, since 2014. We understand each other’s body language.”
Both Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav would be eager to start their tenure on high. The duo gel well together as they earlier played at the Kolkata Knight Riders together. While Gambhir was the skipper, Suryakumar was the vice-captain of the team.
