Sun Nov 10 16:44:21 UTC 2024: ## India Aims for T20 Dominance in South Africa, Suryakumar Plays Down Test Return

**Durban, South Africa:** With a new-look squad, India is set to kick off their tour of South Africa with a four-match T20I series beginning on Friday. T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, while acknowledging the recent Test series disappointment, expressed his focus on the current series and his commitment to delivering dominant performances in the shortest format.

“When the time comes, I will make a Test comeback,” said Suryakumar at the pre-match press conference. “I am playing in all domestic tournaments, be it red-ball or white-ball. I don’t miss any games. If a Test comeback is meant to happen, it will.”

The star batsman, who has only one Test cap to his name, highlighted his focus on his current role and the opportunity to lead India to victory in the T20I series. He also drew inspiration from Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s composure, stating, “Whether Rohit is performing well or not, his character remains unchanged. That is a quality I believe every sportsman should have.”

Despite concerns over the bouncy South African wickets, Suryakumar dismissed them, stating, “We play on good bouncy pitches in India as well, so it’s nothing new for us. We also played here last year and understand the conditions, the ground, and the wicket. We have our game plan, and we’re excited for the series ahead.”

India is looking to build on their strong T20I record against South Africa, having won six out of nine matches. The series will see a blend of experienced players and exciting young talent, including Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Jitesh Sharma, who are all looking to make their mark on the international stage.

The four T20Is will be played in Durban (November 9), Gqeberha (November 10), Centurion (November 13), and Johannesburg (November 15).

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