On January 31, 2026, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav made history by breaking a significant world record during the final T20I against New Zealand in Thiruvananthapuram. His outstanding performance sets India up well for the T20 World Cup 2026, which begins on February 7.
Suryakumar Yadav sets T20I record in IND vs NZ 5th T20I
Suryakumar Yadav has become the fastest player in T20I history to score 3,000 runs based on balls faced, achieving this milestone in just 1,822 balls. He surpassed the previous record of 1,947 balls held by UAE’s Muhammad Waseem. Yadav is now only the third Indian to reach 3,000 T20I runs, joining legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Notably, he accomplished this feat much quicker than Rohit, who took 2,149 balls, and Kohli, who needed 2,169 balls.
Fastest to 3,000 T20I Runs (By Balls Faced):
- Suryakumar Yadav (India): 1,822 balls
- Muhammad Waseem (UAE): 1,947 balls
- Jos Buttler (England): 2,068 balls
- Aaron Finch (Australia): 2,077 balls
- David Warner (Australia): 2,113 balls
Strong performance at Greenfield International Stadium during IND vs NZ 5th T20I
This record was achieved during a powerful innings of 63 runs from just 30 balls. Yadav showcased his wide range of shots, reaching the milestone with a boundary off Lockie Ferguson in the 13th over. He formed a crucial 137-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, effectively challenging the New Zealand bowlers. His innings included four fours and six sixes, maintaining a strike rate over 165, the highest among those with 3,000 T20I runs.
This achievement sends a strong message to competitors just one week before the 2026 T20 World Cup. After a brief slump earlier this year, Yadav’s return to form is a significant boost for the defending champions. His ability to handle spin and attack pace was evident, particularly during an over where he scored 23 runs off Jacob Duffy. As India gets ready to host the major event, their captain is set to be a key player in the T20 format.
