Mumbai, Nov 26 (UNI) India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav on Wednesday expressed his determination as he prepares to lead the national team in its quest to defend the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title next year.
Speaking at a star-studded event unveiling the 2026 tournament fixtures, the skipper reflected on last year’s triumph and the unique prospect of defending the title in home conditions.
“I mean, it’s a big challenge going into that T20 World Cup,” ICC quoted Suryakumar as saying during the special event. “I am very excited to be leading this time. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
Recalling India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, where he played a pivotal role, Suryakumar spoke about the motivation he draws from seeing the trophy up close.
“What gives me a lot of motivation is looking at that trophy. When we reached the West Indies (co-host of the 2024 event) and every time we had the national anthem, we would eye this silverware. Every single time,” he said.
The cricketer further added, “And we thought as soon as the final came, we had to win this trophy. And after seeing it again from up close, it gives me a lot of motivation. That too, playing in India, I think it is going to be a lot of fun.”
The 2026 edition will mark the first time India hosts a T20 World Cup since 2016, and their first ICC men’s event since the 2023 ODI World Cup. With a squad featuring several newcomers, Suryakumar has been sharing his experiences of playing marquee tournaments at home.
“The boys are very excited. Everyone is very keen to be a part of this squad going into the T20 World Cup,” Suryakumar added. “I have shared a lot of experiences. I have been part of a wonderful unit in 2023 when we played the ODI World Cup in India. The vibe was completely different.”
“I have told them that it’s a completely different ball game. Yes, the fans will be similar (in turnouts), as you see in franchise cricket, but when India comes into the picture, when you play for the country, it has a completely different emotion altogether,” he said.
“So they are very excited. We have been trying to play a different brand of cricket. Hopefully, we continue the same thing going into the World Cup.”
India will kickstart their campaign on February 7, 2026, against the USA at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
