Ryan ten Doeschate Backs Shubman Gill & Suryakumar Yadav Despite Poor Form Ahead of T20 World Cup
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has publicly backed two of the team’s most high-profile batters, Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, even as both players endure a challenging run of form in T20 Internationals. Speaking ahead of the upcoming matches in the five-match T20I series against South Africa, Doeschate emphasised that the Indian team management remains confident in the duo’s abilities and long-term prospects ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Gill and Suryakumar, who have been mainstays of India’s limited-overs setup, have managed just 21 runs combined across the first two matches of the series, including a first-ball dismissal for Gill in the second game, where India suffered a heavy 51-run loss in New Chandigarh. Such performances have intensified scrutiny around their places in the side and raised questions about India’s batting consistency as the World Cup nears.
Despite the slump, Doeschate spoke positively about the duo’s mindset, saying he “saw some good signs”, indicating they are on the right track mentally and technically. He specifically referenced Gill’s progression and approach during India’s recent tour of Australia, noting improvements that could translate into stronger performances soon. The coach also highlighted Gill’s prolific IPL record, pointing to seasons where he has scored between 600 and 800 runs as evidence of his class and capability when confidence and conditions align.
On Suryakumar Yadav, who also continues to struggle for runs, Doeschate reiterated the importance of backing quality players. The T20I skipper’s lean patch, reflected in a modest average over the past year, has been a source of concern for fans and pundits. However, the coach maintained that Suryakumar’s leadership role and underlying skillset make him a vital part of India’s plans, particularly with the global tournament approaching.
The confidence shown by the coaching staff contrasts with external pressure from commentators and former players. Criticism has surfaced not just about individual form but also tactical decisions, such as India’s batting order and reliance on a select few players to anchor innings. Some analysts have questioned whether the team is shielding struggling stars or adjusting their strategy too rigidly, sparking debate among supporters and cricket experts.
Gill’s continued lean streak, which has drawn comparisons with his prolific IPL numbers, has become a talking point in the lead-up to the World Cup. Meanwhile, Suryakumar’s extended captaincy duties are seen by some critics as a potential factor contributing to his batting slump. Nevertheless, Doeschate’s remarks make clear that India’s management remains optimistic, placing trust in experience and proven talent over short-term statistics.
As India prepares for the remaining T20Is, the focus will be on how Gill and Suryakumar respond. For a side aiming for World Cup glory, the return to form of its senior batsmen could be crucial and the backing from the coaching hierarchy signals a belief that better days are still ahead.
Gill and Suryakumar, who have been mainstays of India’s limited-overs setup, have managed just 21 runs combined across the first two matches of the series, including a first-ball dismissal for Gill in the second game, where India suffered a heavy 51-run loss in New Chandigarh. Such performances have intensified scrutiny around their places in the side and raised questions about India’s batting consistency as the World Cup nears.
Despite the slump, Doeschate spoke positively about the duo’s mindset, saying he “saw some good signs”, indicating they are on the right track mentally and technically. He specifically referenced Gill’s progression and approach during India’s recent tour of Australia, noting improvements that could translate into stronger performances soon. The coach also highlighted Gill’s prolific IPL record, pointing to seasons where he has scored between 600 and 800 runs as evidence of his class and capability when confidence and conditions align.
On Suryakumar Yadav, who also continues to struggle for runs, Doeschate reiterated the importance of backing quality players. The T20I skipper’s lean patch, reflected in a modest average over the past year, has been a source of concern for fans and pundits. However, the coach maintained that Suryakumar’s leadership role and underlying skillset make him a vital part of India’s plans, particularly with the global tournament approaching.
The confidence shown by the coaching staff contrasts with external pressure from commentators and former players. Criticism has surfaced not just about individual form but also tactical decisions, such as India’s batting order and reliance on a select few players to anchor innings. Some analysts have questioned whether the team is shielding struggling stars or adjusting their strategy too rigidly, sparking debate among supporters and cricket experts.
Gill’s continued lean streak, which has drawn comparisons with his prolific IPL numbers, has become a talking point in the lead-up to the World Cup. Meanwhile, Suryakumar’s extended captaincy duties are seen by some critics as a potential factor contributing to his batting slump. Nevertheless, Doeschate’s remarks make clear that India’s management remains optimistic, placing trust in experience and proven talent over short-term statistics.
As India prepares for the remaining T20Is, the focus will be on how Gill and Suryakumar respond. For a side aiming for World Cup glory, the return to form of its senior batsmen could be crucial and the backing from the coaching hierarchy signals a belief that better days are still ahead.
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