Saba Karim backs Suryakumar Yadav's sacking, names Rajat Patidar as T20 captaincy option

Suryakumar Yadav (Pic: AFP)

Former Indian cricketer and national selector Saba Karim stated on Thursday that Suryakumar Yadav's extended lean patch with the bat means he no longer merits a spot in the national team, especially as selectors begin prioritising long-term planning for the 2028 T20 World Cup.

The current Indian T20I captain endured a highly disappointing IPL season, managing just 270 runs across 13 appearances. He scored only two half-centuries and recorded a relatively modest strike rate of 147.54 by his standards.

"On current form, Suryakumar may not be a part of the selection committee's vision to take this team forward," Karim told PTI in an exclusive interaction.

"We have seen that in the past; the selection committee moved from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and they picked a new side. So, one can see that happening even now for the T20 World Cup that will take place in 2028."

"Even in the World Cup, Suryakumar's form was very indifferent, and that has continued in the IPL. I think the selectors have to look ahead (now)," Karim added.

Would like to see Patidar among captaincy candidates: Karim

Karim suggested that Rajat Patidar should be seriously considered for the leadership role. The 33-year-old middle-order batter recently guided a high-profile Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad to consecutive IPL trophies, despite having never played a T20I for India.

"I would like to add Rajat Patidar's name as a contender for captaincy. Winning back-to-back IPL titles is a very tough assignment, and he has done that in a very calm and a very assured manner," Karim said.

"He has had to lead a team of individuals and foreign players who have been star players for their national sides. To lead such a team which has so many legends and a mix of experience is a very difficult assignment and he has accomplished that."

Beyond Patidar, the former wicketkeeper listed a few other players who could potentially fill the leadership void, mentioning Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan as viable options.

"I think Shreyas Iyer would be one of those candidates. I have Sanju Samson, (and) in fact, Ishan Kishan (too). I think there will be two or three strong contenders to take over the captaincy," he said.

(With PTI inputs)