India’s cricket captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledges nerves and pressure ahead of the home World Cup opener but vows to entertain the massive home crowd.
INDIA captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted there will be nerves when his team opens its T20 World Cup campaign at home.
He spoke ahead of Saturday’s Group A opener against the United States at a packed Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The top-ranked team are overwhelming favourites to retain the title they won in 2024.
READ MORE: India favourites as T20 World Cup begins after chaotic build-up
Suryakumar said his side will try to feed off the positive energy from over a billion home supporters.
“When you’re playing at home there is always an added pressure. I’m not running away from the fact,” he told reporters on Friday.
“To be honest, there will be nerves, there will be pressure, but if you see the positive side of it, there’ll be a lot of cheer around.”
He has instructed his players to focus on entertaining the huge crowd expected at the stadium.
“I’ve told my boys the same thing, 30,000-35,000 people coming and so many watching at home. Let’s give them a good time. Let’s give them entertainment.”
India are wary of their opening opponents after the USA’s famous super over win against Pakistan in the 2024 tournament.
Suryakumar insisted his team would not take any opponent lightly in the competition.
“I don’t see any weak teams in the competition. All 20 teams are very much capable of playing some good cricket,” he said.
“In this format, one or two batters can make a difference. Or it takes one or two bowlers to have a good 24 balls on any given day.”
USA batsman Sanjay Krishnamurthi said it was an honour to play the hosts in the opening match.
“I think for all Americans, this is a special moment for our country,” the 22-year-old said.
“To be able to come here and play cricket in one of the most iconic stadiums against one of the best teams in the world, I think it’s going to inspire a future generation.”
India’s preparations suffered a late setback when fast bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana was ruled out of the tournament.
He suffered a knee injury in a warm-up match two days prior.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s medical team deemed him unfit following specialist consultations and scans.
He will be replaced by experienced fast bowler Mohammad Siraj.
The 31-year-old Siraj is a veteran of 45 Tests but has not played a T20 international since July 2024.
