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Suryakumar Yadav Returns for Training for First Time Since Sports Hernia Surgery
Indian T20 captain and Mumbai Indians star Suryakumar Yadav has taken his first major step towards a competitive comeback, returning to training last week for the first time since undergoing sports hernia surgery in Germany. The 34-year-old right-hander, known worldwide for his 360-degree stroke play, hit the nets at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, marking the start of his road back to full fitness ahead of a crucial season for Indian cricket.
Suryakumar sustained the injury in July and underwent surgery shortly after. The decision to operate was made swiftly, given the risk of aggravating the condition and the busy international calendar. While his initial return was being planned with the late-August Bangladesh series in mind, the postponement of that tour to next year has given the Indian team management more breathing space to manage his workload and recovery.
A Carefully Monitored Comeback
According to the BCCI medical team is following a phased rehabilitation plan for the flamboyant batter. His workload will be increased gradually, with initial sessions focusing on light net practice and controlled physical drills. Suryakumar will also undergo specialised strengthening exercises to avoid recurrence — a key concern, as this marks his third surgery in three years.
The road to recovery has been far from straightforward for the Indian skipper. After ankle surgery in 2023, he underwent his first sports hernia surgery in 2024. This latest operation is a repeat procedure, making careful monitoring essential. Yet, those close to him say his trademark energy and positive mindset remain intact, with Suryakumar reportedly eager to get back into competitive cricket.
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Purple Patch in IPL 2025
According to the BCCI medical team is following a phased rehabilitation plan for the flamboyant batter. Representing Mumbai Indians, he became only the second batter after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to score over 600 runs for the franchise in a single season.
His tally of 717 runs in the campaign was second only to Orange Cap winner Sai Sudharsan’s 759 runs. He played several match-defining innings, blending audacious stroke-making with ice-cool temperament under pressure.
Suryakumar’s performances were instrumental in Mumbai Indians making it to the knockouts. MI overcame Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator but fell short in the second Qualifier against Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer. Nevertheless, his individual brilliance earned him the Player of the Series and the coveted Most Valuable Player title — underlining his status as one of T20 cricket’s most destructive batters.
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Mixed Fortunes in T20 Mumbai League
After the IPL, Suryakumar turned out for Triumph Knights Mumbai North East in the T20 Mumbai League. Although he registered 122 runs across five innings, his side struggled to find consistency, winning only one of their five matches and finishing sixth in the eight-team standings. The campaign did little to dent Suryakumar’s reputation, but it underlined the gap between individual excellence and overall team success in the shortest format.
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Eyes on Asia Cup 2025
The next major assignment for India in the T20 format is the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28. With the tournament in the T20 format, it will serve as an important preparatory ground for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
India have been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, setting up the much-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals on September 14 in Dubai. This will be the first time India and Pakistan face off since the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, and the subsequent Operation Sindoor carried out by Indian armed forces. The political and emotional weight of the fixture is likely to be immense, and Suryakumar’s presence in the Indian lineup could prove pivotal.
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Impact on Team Balance
Suryakumar’s return would significantly boost India’s middle order, which has often relied on him to stabilise innings and accelerate towards the death overs. His ability to manipulate the field with unconventional shots makes him particularly dangerous against quality bowling attacks.
As captain, his leadership style — a mix of aggressive intent and composure — has been well-received in the dressing room. For coach Rahul Dravid and the selectors, having a fit and in-form Suryakumar before the Asia Cup is a top priority.
Lessons from Past Recoveries
Sports hernia injuries can be tricky for cricketers, particularly batters who rely heavily on rapid torso movements and explosive footwork. While the surgery offers relief, rehabilitation demands patience and discipline.
Suryakumar has already proven his resilience, having returned successfully from ankle surgery in 2023 to play some of his best cricket in the following year. The Indian team management is hopeful that this recovery will be no different, especially given the additional rest afforded by the postponed Bangladesh series.
Preparation Pathway
If all goes well, Suryakumar is expected to gradually increase his net time over the next two weeks, followed by practice matches with local bowlers to regain match sharpness. BCCI’s fitness trainers will conduct regular assessments, including sprint tests, core strength evaluations, and range-of-motion measurements, to ensure there’s no discomfort.
Should he hit his milestones without setbacks, Suryakumar could be match-ready by the opening fixture of the Asia Cup — potentially facing a high-pressure game against Afghanistan or another Group B team before the blockbuster against Pakistan.
A Leader in Transition Phase
Indian cricket is undergoing a generational transition, with several senior players phasing out of the T20 setup and younger talents pushing for spots. In such a scenario, Suryakumar’s dual role as a senior batter and leader gains even more importance.
His captaincy stint has already seen him back aggressive young players and experiment with flexible batting orders. The Asia Cup will test both his tactical acumen and his physical readiness.
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Fan and Expert Reactions
The news of his return to training has been met with optimism from fans and pundits alike. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag called it “a huge relief” for the Indian side, while several ex-teammates expressed confidence in Suryakumar’s ability to regain form quickly.
On social media, MI supporters in particular have been vocal about their excitement, recalling his IPL heroics earlier this year. Many believe his fearless batting is exactly what India will need to counter Pakistan’s potent pace attack in UAE conditions.
Looking Ahead
For now, Suryakumar’s focus will be on ticking off his rehab goals, listening to his body, and balancing ambition with caution. The coming month offers both a challenge and an opportunity: the challenge of returning from a repeat surgery, and the opportunity to lead India in a high-stakes tournament.
If the past few years are any indication, Suryakumar thrives under pressure. Whether it’s playing outrageous reverse scoops off express bowlers or rallying his team in tense chases, he has consistently shown the temperament to deliver on big occasions.
With the Asia Cup looming and the cricketing world’s eyes on Dubai come September, India will be hoping their ‘Mr. 360’ is back at full throttle — ready to script another chapter in his remarkable career.
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