India’s Suryakumar Yadav keen to rewrite history in Ahmedabad at next year’s T20 World Cup
The last time India featured in the final of an ICC event in Ahmedabad, two years ago, it ended it heartbreak as it lost to Australia in the summit clash of the ODI World Cup.
But come March next year, India captain Suryakumar Yadav would love to feature in the final of the T20 World Cup against Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium, and rewrite history.
But before that, it will be important for Suryakumar and his men to handle the pressure of playing at home. Placed in the same group, alongside Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and USA, Suryakumar seems confident of India’s chances.
“The group looks quite decent. It’s a T20 format, so you never know which team has a good day on a given day. It’s all about two batters and two bowlers having a good day. But the group looks quite decent and it (feels good to) play in good venues like Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad,” Suryakumar said.
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The focus, however, will be on the marquee game against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15. In T20 World Cups, India has won seven of the nine fixtures between the teams, with one no result. The last time they faced off in the Asia Cup, India defeated Pakistan in all three meetings, and eventually clinched the title.
“We played them recently during the Asia Cup and we had a good time. Everything was completely focused on cricket, nothing else as you must have seen,” Suryakumar said with a smile, before adding: “I’m sure it will be a good game. Boys are always excited to Pakistan.”
India has won the last two ICC titles – the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy this year – and Suryakumar is aware of the fact that being the defending champion, the expectations will be high.
“I have been part of the wonderful unit in 2023 when we played the ODI World Cup in India. The vibe was completely different. It’s a completely different ball game. When India comes into the picture, when you play for the country, it has a completely different emotion altogether. So they are really excited,” Suryakumar said.
“We’ve been trying to play a different brand of cricket. Hopefully we can do the same thing going into the World Cup. Everyone is really excited,” he added.
India begins its campaign against USA at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7.
Published on Nov 25, 2025
