'Don't see any reason why we can't go all the way' - Suryakumar Yadav backs 'fully prepared' India to defend T20 World Cup crown

India made a winning start to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a 29-run victory over the USA in Mumbai. The Suryakumar Yadav-led team will be keen to continue their winning run in their second game against Namibia, which is set to be played on February 12 in Delhi.

Ahead of the crucial group-stage encounter, skipper Suryakumar Yadav shared his thoughts on India’s title defence and the reasons behind his team’s sensational form in the T20 format over the last 18 months.

Suryakumar highlighted the Indian players’ team-first philosophy, as they have shifted the focus from personal milestones. Expressing confidence in his team, the skipper reckoned that he does not see a reason why India should not be able to defend their crown, having clinched the 2024 edition of the tournament in West Indies and USA.

"If you prioritise team goals ahead of personal milestones, more often than not, I feel the team will be in a dominant position. Only we can stop ourselves if we overanalyse or slip into a negative mindset, but I feel this team is fully prepared for the T20 World Cup. I don’t see any reason why we can’t go all the way,” said Suryakumar on JioStar’s ‘Follow the Blues’.

Asked about the importance of providing everyone the freedom to express themselves, Suryakumar stated he believes in free speech, adding that it is “essential” to a team sport.

"Honesty and freedom of speech are essential to a team sport. It’s important to listen to other players, as they might have an insight that could be beneficial for the team. Also, giving everyone the freedom to play their natural game, which has helped them reach this level, is key to maintaining a healthy team atmosphere. Looking at our win percentage over the last one or two years, which has been impressive, we must be doing something right."

India are slotted with USA, Pakistan, Namibia and Netherlands in Group A of the tournament.