Suryakumar Yadav wants to 'bat the same way' despite poor form ahead of T20 World Cup

NAGPUR: India captain Suryakumar Yadav on Tuesday clarified he would not alter his batting approach despite a long-standing lean patch as the holders gear up to defend their ICC Men's T20 World Cup title with a five-match home series against New Zealand.

Yadav, who led India to ACC Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025 glory, has been under scrutiny over his individual performances as the right-handed middle-order last scored a half-century in the shortest format against Bangladesh in October 2024.

Since then, Yadav has managed to accumulate 244 runs at a dismal average of 12.84, with his highest score being 47 not out, which came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the group-stage match of the eight-team continental tournament.

Although India are one of the favourites to win the upcoming mega event, which they host alongside Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, their captain Yadav's form remains a major concern for the Men in Blue, who are set to give final touches to their preparations by hosting New Zealand for a five-match series, slated to commence on Wednesday.

Addressing the pre-series press conference at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium earlier today, Yadav was asked about his failures to score runs for the team.

In response, the 35-year-old confidently backed himself to get back among runs, citing his recent net sessions. He further stressed that he would continue batting the same way, which has given him success over the years, but would remain open to reassessment if the results do not follow.

"Every game we play in a series is crucial. We try to get something out of it. I have been batting really well at the nets and also talking about the runs; it will definitely come, but at the same time, I can't do things differently," said Suryakumar Yadav.

"I don't want to change my identity. What has given me success in the past 3-4 years, I would like to bat the same way. And then if performance comes, I will take it. If it doesn't come, then I will go back to the drawing board, practice again, work hard and come back stronger," he added.