Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu expressed confidence in the Suryakumar Yadav-led team’s ability to win the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup and defend their 2024 title. Rayudu’s remarks followed India’s impressive 46-run victory over New Zealand in the final T20I, securing a 4-1 series win at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
India, the reigning champions and top-ranked T20I side, will kick off their T20 World Cup Group A campaign against the United States of America (USA) at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on February 7. Subsequently, they will face Namibia, Pakistan, and the Netherlands in New Delhi, Colombo, and Ahmedabad, respectively.
Rayudu emphasized the team’s unique approach and motivation, highlighting their fearlessness and strong determination. He expressed optimism about India’s chances in the upcoming World Cup, noting the team’s potential for success despite missing key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, who retired post the 2024 victory in Barbados.
Acknowledging the absence of the experienced trio, Rayudu stressed the opportunity for the current squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav, to showcase their capabilities and secure victory. Rayudu, who represented India in six T20Is and 55 ODIs, also mentioned his involvement in the World Legends Pro T20 League in Goa, alongside his role as a broadcaster.
Maintaining his connection to the game through analysis post-retirement, Rayudu highlighted the importance of staying engaged with cricket. He credited his fitness routine, developed over years of professional cricket, for keeping him occupied and prepared for high-quality tournaments like the ongoing World Legends Pro T20 League.
