Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has weighed in on the reports surrounding Suryakumar Yadav’s alleged removal as India’s T20I captain, saying he is not surprised by the development despite the Mumbai batter leading the Men in Blue to T20 World Cup glory earlier this year. According to multiple reports, India’s selectors are considering a leadership change ahead of the next T20I cycle, with concerns reportedly centered around Suryakumar’s prolonged dip in batting form.
While the 35-year-old remains one of India’s most accomplished T20 batters, his struggles with the bat over the past year have raised questions about his place in the team’s long-term plans.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif compared the situation to the BCCI’s decision to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s white-ball captain after the Champions Trophy triumph in 2025. He suggested that Indian cricket has entered a phase where selectors are prioritising future planning over recent achievements.
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“I am not surprised. I was only shocked when Rohit lost captaincy. After that, all this seems normal. It is a big call. But Rohit’s call was a much bigger call than this,” Mohammad Kaif said.
The former India batter believes the selectors are trying to establish a consistent approach towards leadership transitions, regardless of a captain’s recent success. Suryakumar’s struggles were evident during IPL 2026, where he endured a disappointing campaign for Mumbai Indians. However, Kaif feels that his recent form should not overshadow his contributions as a captain and match-winner for India.
“I feel that Surya won the trophy as captain, so he deserves to be in the team. Yes, he is not scoring runs, but we want India to keep winning. If the team is doing well and only one player is struggling, I think you are looking too deep into the issue,” Mohammad Kaif stated.
He further argued that proven performers deserve additional backing during difficult phases, especially when they have delivered major trophies.
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“The winning captain deserves to be backed more. He has been a proven player for India and his record speaks for itself,” Kaif added.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his captaincy, Suryakumar remains one of India’s most successful T20 batters. His impressive international record and leadership achievements continue to make him a significant figure in India’s white-ball setup, even as discussions over the team’s future direction intensify.
