IND vs USA T20 World Cup 2026: Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has lauded Suryakumar Yadav for his match-winning knock of 84 runs against the USA during their 2026 T20 World Cup opener and called it a masterclass, and that it was one of the best innings in the shortest format. This knock helped the host begin their campaign on a high note.

Suryakumar Yadav led the team from the front by scoring a match-winning knock of 84 runs. Mohammad Siraj's brilliant figures of 3/29 helped the team win the match by 29 runs.

“It was a good result to start with, and Surya — that was a masterclass, outstanding. It was one of the best T20I innings played under pressure," Gambhir was heard as saying in a video shared by BCCI.

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Talking about their batting collapse, Surya admitted that this win was special, and it was also a learning experience for both the players and the coaches.

“It’s a very, very special feeling to win after a few scares and hiccups, but it’s also an eye-opener for the boys and the support staff. I’ve played in similar situations before, so I knew that staying there for my side was crucial," he said.

How SKY Saved India?

With India struggling at 77/6, Surya and Axar Patel formed a vital 41-run partnership for the seventh wicket. The Indian skipper then showcased his 360-degree stroke-making abilities and power-hitting, hammering two sixes and two fours in the final over to help India reach 161/9 in 20 overs. Mohammad Siraj claimed three wickets for 29 runs, and with Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel taking two wickets each, India restricted the USA to 132/8, winning by 29 runs.

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The captain admitted that India struggled to adapt to challenging batting conditions, emphasising the importance of honest assessment rather than overlooking shortcomings despite the win.

“I understand it was a difficult wicket to bat on, and we are not used to conditions like these. But at the same time, you can’t brush everything under the carpet. We have to understand how we could have batted better. At the end of the day, you learn and move on."

Speaking about leading the side at his home ground, the captain described the experience of captaining India at the Wankhede Stadium as special, crediting the crowd for creating a vibrant atmosphere.

“It’s always special to play at the Wankhede, and I knew that when I walked out as captain of this team, it would be buzzing — and the crowd didn’t disappoint."