Concerns Grow for India's T20 World Cup Squad
As India gears up for the T20 World Cup, the poor performances of captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill have become a significant talking point. Both players failed to deliver in the critical 2nd T20I against South Africa, leading to serious questions about their form and fitness ahead of the tournament.
Shubman Gill's Struggles Continue
Shubman Gill, once a batting sensation, faced a crushing setback with a golden duck during the match, where South Africa posted an impressive total of 213 runs. This performance follows a troubling trend, with Gill's batting stats reflecting a sharp decline. In this series, he's been dismissed by Lungi Ngidi twice, managing just four runs off three balls against him.
Diminishing Returns
To highlight his struggles, the last time Gill scored above fifty in T20Is was back in July 2024. His only century in this format came against New Zealand in February 2023. A review of his last ten innings reveals he’s crossed 40 runs only once:
Suryakumar Yadav's Form in Decline
Yadav, too, is witnessing unsettling times at the crease. His average has plummeted, with just 14 runs in 19 innings in 2025, and a highest score of only 47 this year. Despite shining in IPL 2025, his international form continues to falter.
Recent Performances
In the same match against South Africa, Yadav managed just 5 runs, falling to a catch by the wicketkeeper as he attempted to drive a delivery from Jansen. He appears low on confidence, with bowlers exploiting his weaknesses effectively, something not seen in previous years.
Questions Surrounding Their Selection
These performances lead to a crucial question: Can Yadav and Gill maintain their places in the T20I setup? Despite their leadership roles, their current inability to perform may threaten India's prospects in the upcoming World Cup.
Conclusion
As they look to refine their skills, both players must address their performance issues immediately to avoid jeopardizing India's chances in the tournament. Their form is not just a personal concern but impacts the team's overall strategy heading into the global event.