India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has opened up about his struggles in the ODI format, which led to his exclusion from the 2025 Champions Trophy squad. Speaking before the first T20I against England at Eden Gardens, the 33-year-old acknowledged that his recent disappointing performances in 50-over cricket were the primary reason behind his omission.
“Why would it hurt? If I had performed well, I would have been in the Champions Trophy. If I don’t perform, it’s important to accept that,” Suryakumar said, reflecting on his form.
Suryakumar’s last ODI appearance was in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia, where he scored just 18 runs off 28 balls. Since his ODI debut in 2021, he has accumulated 773 runs in 37 matches, but his form has significantly declined in recent years, with an average of only 21 in 2023.
In contrast, Suryakumar has thrived in T20Is, amassing 2,570 runs in 74 innings at an average of 40 and an exceptional strike rate of 167. Despite his struggles in the ODI format, he continues to be a key player in India’s T20 setup.
Praises the Champions Trophy Squad
Suryakumar praised the composition of the Champions Trophy squad, set to compete in Dubai and Pakistan later this year. “The squad is looking great. Everyone in it has performed well. They’ve done well in that format for India and domestic cricket, and I’m really happy for them,” he stated.
Personal Disappointment
While the Mumbai native accepted his omission, he expressed regret over his missed opportunities in ODIs. “It hurts to think that I haven’t performed well. If I had, I would have stayed in. Someone who has done well truly deserves to be there,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Suryakumar shared his excitement about the prospect of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami bowling together once again. The duo played a crucial role in India’s 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, taking a combined 44 wickets.
“They are experienced bowlers, and whenever you play for India, it’s a different feeling. Hopefully, we will see the same performances in the Champions Trophy.”
