Newly appointed T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has discussed all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s role for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka. This follows Yadav’s recent appointment as captain, succeeding Rohit Sharma.
Rohit Sharma retired from T20I cricket after leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024. Although many anticipated that Hardik Pandya would take over the captaincy, the selection committee, led by chairman Ajit Agarkar and new head coach Gautam Gambhir, chose Suryakumar Yadav instead.
Hardik Pandya, who captains the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, had Yadav playing under him during the IPL 2024 season. However, with the new T20I series against Sri Lanka, roles have shifted, with Shubman Gill appointed as vice-captain of the Indian team.
“Hardik’s role is very important. His role will be the same, he is a very important player for Team India,” Suryakumar told reporters.
Hardik Pandya’s Role Will Be The Same – Suryakumar Yadav
My batting style won’t change. Pressure is fun – Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged that the captaincy has given him added responsibility. However, the middle-order batter stated that his brand of cricket remains the same. Yadav said he wants to deliver for the team under pressure.
“Captaincy has given me added responsibility. But my brand of cricket remains the same. My batting style won’t change. Pressure is fun,” Suryakumar added.
The 33-year-old batter has limited experience in captaincy roles at both international and IPL levels. Suryakumar Yadav has led the Indian team in seven T20Is, achieving five victories, including a 4-1 series win over Australia. Additionally, he captained the Mumbai Indians in one match during the IPL 2023.
Currently ranked second in T20 internationals, the Mumbai cricketer has accumulated 2,340 runs from 68 matches, boasting an average of 43.33 and a remarkable strike rate of 167.74. He has scored four centuries and 19 half-centuries, with his highest score being 117 against England in 2022.
