Sanju Samson is reportedly the leading candidate to take over as India’s T20I captain if Suryakumar Yadav is replaced, with his exceptional 2026 form giving him an edge over Shreyas Iyer.
If India’s T20I captaincy changes hands, Samson appears most likely to be chosen over Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer. According to a report, Samson is currently the top contender to assume leadership, with the switch potentially happening as early as the upcoming series against Ireland and England.
Suryakumar Yadav’s declining batting performances have prompted selectors to consider a replacement. In IPL 2026, he has managed only 195 runs in ten matches, averaging a modest 19.52 with a strike rate below 150. His numbers in the T20 World Cup 2026, which India won under his captaincy, were also unconvincing. When his innings against the USA is excluded, his contributions throughout the tournament were largely forgettable. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is closely monitoring his form and has not ruled out handing the captaincy to someone else.
The report notes that Suryakumar may still lead India on the UK tour if his batting improves, with Samson expected to serve as vice-captain.
Shreyas Iyer’s name has also surfaced in captaincy discussions, but one key factor holds him back: he has not played a T20I for India since December 2023. The selectors want him to first secure a starting spot in the T20I side before any leadership conversation becomes relevant. However, the door is not completely closed. If Suryakumar’s poor form continues, Shreyas—who is currently leading Punjab Kings in the IPL—could find his way back into the middle order. He has previously won an IPL title with Kolkata Knight Riders and led both Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals to finals.
Meanwhile, Samson has enjoyed a remarkable year. He did not make the playing XI for the T20 World Cup, but when called upon in the tournament’s business end, he delivered when it mattered most. He scored match-winning knocks against the West Indies in the Super 8s, England in the semi-final, and New Zealand in the final, earning the Player of the Tournament award. He carried that form into IPL 2026, becoming one of the standout performers for Chennai Super Kings, with two centuries and a fifty in ten matches, totaling 402 runs at an average of 57.43. There is also talk that he could replace Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK’s captain next season. Samson is no stranger to leadership, having previously captained Rajasthan Royals and guided them to the IPL final in 2022.
If India decides to change their T20I captain, Samson is the right choice. He has proven he can handle pressure when stakes are highest—a crucial quality for a World Cup captain. Shreyas may eventually get his turn, but selectors are wise to insist he earns his place in the team first.
