In a significant development for the ICC T20 World Cup campaign, India’s cricket team captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted on Friday that there will be nerves when they take on over 30,000 home fans in Mumbai. Despite being the top-ranked T20 team in the world, he vowed to give them “entertainment” rather than succumb to the pressure.
The Indian team’s Group ‘A’ campaign starts with a packed Wankhede Stadium match against the United States on Saturday night. As India opens their tournament as co-hosts, Yadav is well aware of the added responsibility but remains confident in his team’s ability to leverage the support of such an enthusiastic home crowd.
“I’m not running away from the fact there will be nerves and pressure,” said Yadav ahead of final training sessions on Friday. “But if you look at it positively, there are billions cheering for us.”
He continued, “When we play in our own country, there’s always an added weight. I’ve told my boys to keep that positive perspective; 30,000-35,000 people will be cheering and millions watching at home. Let’s give them a good time and let them enjoy the cricket.”
The Indian team understands they are overwhelming favorites but acknowledges every opponent, including the United States who upset Pakistan in a super over during the tournament.
“We don’t see any weak teams,” Yadav stated. “All 20 nations have what it takes to compete. In this format, one or two batters can make a huge difference, and so can one or two bowlers on a given day.”
For USA middle-order batsman Sanjay Krishnamurthi, representing his country in such an iconic stadium is an honor. “This is a special moment for America,” he said. “To play against the best team in the world at home is something to inspire future generations of American cricketers.”
However, India’s fast bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana was ruled out of the tournament late Friday after suffering a knee injury. He will be replaced by experienced veteran Mohammad Siraj, who has not played an international T20 since July 2024.
The upcoming clash against the United States marks one of the most significant matches in India’s cricket history as they bid to defend their title and showcase for all Americans.