Team India all-rounder Shivam Dube has backed captain Suryakumar Yadav despite his poor performance in the short format of the national cricket team. Dube said Suryakumar remains a rare match-winner who can decide matches on his own ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in February-March next year.

In 2025, Surya scored just 201 runs in 14 T20Is at an average of 14.36 and a strike rate of 126.42. He also struggled against South Africa in the ongoing five-match series. The India skipper, batting at No. 4, scored 12 runs in the third T20I in Dharamshala before being dismissed by Lungi Ngidi.

Can win five out of five games – Shivam Dube backs Suryakumar Yadav

Suryakumar Yadav last scored in T20Is in October 2024 and doubts surrounding his form are growing. However, Shivam Dube said that the temporary streamlined patch will not reduce the value of Suryakumar. He added that Sky’s influence goes beyond statistics, describing himself as the winner of the competition.

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“He is the kind of player who can win five out of five games on his own. If he doesn’t score now, it doesn’t mean he is not a good player,” Dube said on the eve of the fourth T20I against South Africa in Lucknow.

“He is one of the best. No one can do what he does. Yes, the runs have dried up, but his form will come back at the right time. He can explode at any time,” he added.

Suryakumar Yadav always wants to do something for the team – Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube said Suryakumar Yadav is a perfect 360-degree batsman and his mentality remains the same regardless of the runs. Dube also backed vice-captain Shubman Gill, who is facing a dip in T20I form. He noted that Gill had contributed to India over the years.

“Whether he scores or not, he is the same guy. He always wants to do something for the team. He is innovative and always a threat,” Dube continued.

“Even if his form dips, his numbers are still very good. He has been playing for India for many years,” he added.

I put a lot of effort into fitness – Shivam Dube

The 32-year-old believes India’s plans to host the World Cup are set. He said the captain, coach and selectors would only take minor decisions. Dube also said that he worked hard on his fitness during the off-season and discussed bowling issues with Moeen Morkel regularly.

“I don’t think much will change. This is one of the best teams we have. I’ve worked a lot on fitness and had a lot of conversations with Morne Morkel. That’s helped me a lot,” he said.

Dube has started playing an important role with the ball in T20 matches. Suryakumar Yadav uses Dube as part of his regular bowling plan, especially in the middle order or when the opponents start to build partnerships. He puts batters in trouble and forces them to make mistakes by slowing the ball down and using cutters.

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