Suryakumar Yadav Opens Up on Leadership Style and Future of Indian T20I Captaincy
India’s white-ball cricket landscape is evolving quickly, and it’s widely expected that Shubman Gill will eventually take over as the country’s T20I captain once Suryakumar Yadav steps aside. Gill has already assumed leadership roles in Tests and ODIs and currently serves as vice-captain of the T20I squad.
Despite Gill being viewed as the natural successor, Suryakumar Yadav insists he doesn’t feel threatened. Instead, he sees the competition as a motivational force. Speaking at Express Adda, Surya highlighted the mutual respect and strong bond he shares with Gill, both on and off the field.
He explained that he has long shed any sense of fear or insecurity regarding his position. According to him, hard work and discipline take care of everything. Surya also expressed genuine happiness for Gill’s progress, praising both his cricketing ability and character.
A Relaxed Captain Who Trusts His Bowlers
When asked about his leadership approach, Suryakumar described himself as a calm and composed captain—even in pressure situations. He shared that he often smiles during tense moments on the field, a reflection of his relaxed mindset.
Surya added that he prefers giving his bowlers the freedom to express themselves, believing that understanding their perspective is key to building a strong, cohesive unit. According to him, every player brings something unique to the table, and listening to them enhances the team’s overall performance.
Fresh off leading India to a 2–1 T20I series win over Australia, the 35-year-old skipper is now preparing for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, beginning on December 9.
