Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene has expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav, stating that the batter is going through a difficult phase but must continue working hard to regain his form. Suryakumar, who amassed over 700 runs in the 2025 season and led India to a T20 World Cup victory, has struggled in IPL 2026, managing only 183 runs in nine innings with just one fifty, which came in Delhi. Most of his scores have hovered around 20, as opposition bowlers have targeted his body with short-pitched deliveries.
Jayawardene's Perspective on Suryakumar's Form
Jayawardene remarked, "If he gets a few scores together, I think he will find that rhythm. Sometimes when things are not going your way, it doesn't fall in place." He defended Suryakumar's dismissal off Ramakrishna Ghosh, calling it a well-timed shot that unfortunately went straight to the fielder. "I've played enough cricket to understand these things," the coach added.
Despite the slump, Jayawardene emphasized that Suryakumar is in a "good space" mentally. "He's definitely up for it. It's just that many of his shots have found fielders on the boundary this season. Even in the last game, a flick shot went straight to the fielder. It's a matter of time. He himself is disappointed, but he just has to keep working harder," Jayawardene said.
Concerns Over Bowling Support for Bumrah
On Jasprit Bumrah, Jayawardene noted that the fast bowler has not received adequate support from the other end. Bumrah has been managing both run control and wicket-taking, which is challenging. "When everyone works together and picks up wickets, it helps Bumrah be more aggressive rather than doing a holding job," the coach explained.
Jayawardene also addressed Bumrah's form, stating, "Everyone tends to have a slow season, but class is permanent. He bowled brilliantly today and was unfortunate not to take more wickets. He gave his all."
