Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes Suryakumar Yadav batting at number four has played a key role in his return to form amid the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Yadav played a magnificent knock of 84 runs off just 49 balls against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Saturday. 

India was under the cosh at 77-6 but SKY played a captain’s knock to lead from the front. SKY had struggled to get going in 2025 but he has been able to turn his form around in 2026. He recently scored 242 runs in five matches against New Zealand and was awarded Player of the Series.

Aaron noted that SKY plays a similar role at the number four position for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL.

Varun Aaron said on ESPN Cricinfo, “You can’t underestimate the fact that Surya is back at No. 4. He’s hit this form after a long time after he has come down from No. 3 to No. 4. Ever since he has come to No. 4, he’s really hit his straps. Batting at No. 3, he almost feels like the world is his oyster with the amount of shots he has. When he goes to No. 4, there’s almost a sense of purpose.

“That’s always been Surya’s role even at MI. He’s been so successful at the Wankhede, has finished innings. If you think about Suryakumar Yadav, you would think of him as a finisher. You wouldn’t think of him as a No. 3,” the 36-year-old added.

On the other hand, former Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble also gave credit to SKY for playing a guile knock when India was under the pump.

“He was looking to play straight early on. He was a bit measured and took the game deep, waited for the last two overs. Most of his runs came in those last two or three overs. It was a typical old-fashioned approach.”

India will next take on Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi on February 12.