India T20I squad for Ireland, England series: Suryakumar Yadav reacts after BCCI replaces him with Shreyas Iyer

More than two-and-a-half years after his last T20I appearance for India, Shreyas Iyer has completed a remarkable comeback—not only returning to the national side but also being appointed captain for the upcoming tours of Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games later this year.

The decision marks a significant turnaround in Shreyas’ career. Not long ago, his international future appeared uncertain. However, a prolific domestic season, consistent performances across formats and an impressive IPL campaign helped him force his way back into the selectors’ plans. Now, he has been handed the responsibility of leading India’s next-generation T20 side.

On Saturday, June 6, the national selectors named Shreyas as India’s new T20I captain, replacing Suryakumar Yadav ahead of three major assignments — the tours of Ireland and England in June-July and the Asian Games in September-October.

Alongside him is Tilak Varma, who has been appointed vice-captain. The left-hander is viewed as a long-term leadership prospect and has steadily grown in stature over the last few years. Selectors increasingly see him as one of the key figures around whom India’s future white-ball plans could revolve.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Fairytale Rise Continues

And then there is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

At just 15 years old, most teenagers are focused on school examinations and future career plans. Sooryavanshi, meanwhile, is preparing for international cricket.

His rise has been extraordinary. Within months, he has gone from being a promising age-group cricketer to one of the most exciting young prospects in Indian cricket. A maiden India call-up represents another giant leap in a journey that seems to be accelerating with every passing week.

For now, though, he remains a teenager carrying a bat, a dream and the weight of enormous expectations.

“We are very careful about his future, and our selectors and our technical persons are monitoring his every step,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said.

A Squad Blending Experience And Youth

The squad reflects a team in transition but one that remains rich in talent.

Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan provide two experienced wicketkeeping options, while Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy bring an aggressive and fearless approach to the batting unit.

Shivam Dube’s power-hitting remains a valuable asset, particularly against pace, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar continue to offer the balance and flexibility that modern T20 teams require.

The bowling attack features a familiar core. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh will spearhead the pace department, with Harshit Rana and Prince Yadav adding youthful energy and raw speed.

In the spin department, Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakaravarthy provide contrasting styles and proven wicket-taking ability in the shortest format.

Suryakumar Reacts To Leadership Change

The captaincy change also marks a significant moment in Suryakumar Yadav’s career, with the star batter losing both the leadership role and his place in the squad.

Despite the setback, Suryakumar congratulated Shreyas on his appointment.

“I am so happy for Shreyas for becoming the captain of the Indian T20I team. We have played all our cricket together here in Mumbai and it feels amazing that the last three T20 captains of India have all come from Mumbai,” Suryakumar said during the toss of the Mumbai T20 match between Triumphs Knights MNE and SoBo Mumbai Falcons.

The Ireland and England tours may not define careers, but they could provide a glimpse into the direction Indian cricket intends to take in the years ahead — a returning leader looking to cement his place, a young deputy being groomed for greater responsibilities and a group of emerging cricketers eager to transform potential into permanence.

India T20I Squad

Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav.