No Problems Working with 'Good Friend’ Hardik Pandya, Says Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav

Particularly in light of recent alterations to the team's leadership structure, the dynamics within India’s Twenty20 International leadership group continue to develop.
The promotion of Axar Patel to the position of vice-captain, in conjunction with the removal of Hardik Pandya from the position of deputy captain, has prompted inquiries over the potential impact that this change may have on the relationship between Suryakumar Yadav.
The current captain of India’s Twenty20 International team, and Hardik, his close friend and teammate with the Mumbai Indians. Suryakumar, on the other hand, is extremely quick to put such worries to rest.
Suryakumar made it abundantly clear that although Hardik may no longer formally hold the vice-captain title, their friendship and professional connection have not been damaged. This was stated on the eve of the inaugural Twenty20 International match, played in Kolkata against New Zealand.
Although Axar has taken on a new job, Suryakumar referred to Hardik as an essential member of India’s leadership group. He said that Hardik’s contributions on the field and in making decisions for the team are extremely valuable.
A Decade-Old and Unbroken Friendship
During his reminiscences regarding his long-standing relationship with Hardik, Suryakumar reflected on their first days together at Mumbai Indians in 2018. Follow bet pro exchange for more amazing cricket news.
He stated, “The relationship with him has been great,” he mentioned that their connection goes well beyond cricket. "Our time spent playing together has been going on for a long time. This is something that I still remember from 2018 when I went back to Mumbai Indians, and it continues to be the same every day."
The mutual regard and friendship that Suryakumar and Hardik have for one another have not been affected by the promotion of Axar Patel to the position of vice-captain, as Suryakumar pointed out.
“It's just that the added responsibility that I’ve got [as captain] might mean a bit more focus on my end, but when we go back to franchise cricket, I can relax a little bit,”
Suryakumar said with a smile. He stressed that Axar and Hardik are essential parts of the leadership group and are working together to define the future of Indian cricket.
Putting Our Futures Together to Build Together
Even though there were leadership changes, Suryakumar could guarantee that there was no disturbance in the team's internal dynamics.
Axar has been a team member for a considerable amount of time, and we witnessed his skills at the Twenty20 World Cup in 2024. He said, “He is deserving of the additional responsibility.”
During the same time, Suryakumar articulated that Hardik’s leadership characteristics remain vital. “Hardik is always around, helping with decisions, and when we sit together, we know exactly what direction we want to take the team in.”
In addition, Suryakumar emphasized the significance of having multiple captains within the squad. “The presence of many captains on the ground makes a significant difference. It allows us to make better judgments as a group, which has been working out well for us,” he stated.
The Establishment of a Strong Partnership with Gautam Gambhir
Additionally, Suryakumar seizes the opportunity to discuss his fruitful connection with Gautam Gambhir, the head coach. India has been doing exceptionally well in Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) since Gambhir took charge in mid-2024.
They have won a series in Sri Lanka, won at home against Bangladesh, and been successful in South Africa. According to Suryakumar, Gambhir is responsible for establishing a free-flowing environment where players can freely express themselves without worrying about being unsuccessful.
“I’ve played under Gambhir for four years, so I know how he works,” Suryakumar told reporters. “We know what to do, even if we have not spoken to him.
He grants us liberty and maintains a straightforward approach. When it comes to coaching, he is outstanding because he is always aware of what is happening inside a player’s head.
He keeps things light and maintains a positive mood, so we are headed in the correct direction." Suryakumar has faith in the path that India is taking under Gambhir’s guidance, as seen by the team’s recent achievements.
Having suffered only one defeat in three consecutive Twenty20 International series, Suryakumar is optimistic about the team’s prospects as they prepare to compete in the upcoming important competitions, such as the Twenty20 World Cup.
Taking a Stance to Consider the Future
Suryakumar emphasized the significance of concentrating on the trip rather than getting too caught up in the long-term goals that India is working towards to prepare for the Twenty20 World Cup in 2026, which will be held in India.
Rather than focusing on the future, taking pleasure in the journey is more vital. “There is still a year till the Twenty20 World Cup, and we want to make sure that we put together the best possible team,” he stated.
Additionally, he brought attention to the fact that India needs to discover the appropriate combinations, ranging from batting positions to bowlers capable of turning games on their own.
“It is our goal to compete in a large number of games in the run-up to the World Cup. Gauti bhai and I are concentrating on ensuring we continue to play with this group until the Asia Cup and the Twenty20 World Cup.”
With the Wicketkeeping Role Secured for the Time Being
Since Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul were not included in India’s Twenty20 International team, Sanju Samson, who has been doing exceptionally well in recent matches, has maintained wickets despite their absence.
However, Suryakumar has stated unequivocally that the wicketkeeper position is not currently under consideration.
As a result of Sanju’s performance in the most recent seven to ten games, he has demonstrated his capabilities. “He has worked hard to earn his spot on the team, and we are pleased with him,” he said.
Suryakumar also brought attention to the harmonious environment within the team. “There is a wonderful sense of togetherness.
The group has been working together for two to three series, and yesterday, we arranged a supper for the crew. Everyone is aware of what their teammates like and don’t like, and that is reflected on the field,” he said.
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Some Concluding Regards
Suryakumar Yadav’s message is crystal clear in the ever-evolving world of cricket, where leadership roles constantly shift and dynamics continuously evolve.
His connection with Hardik Pandya is still strong, and their friendship, developed over many years of playing together, will continue to be an essential component of India’s leadership group.
With a shared vision for the future, Suryakumar, Hardik, Axar, and the rest of the team are prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead, all while preserving the togetherness and camaraderie that have become the defining characteristics of India’s Twenty20 International team.
When Suryakumar considers the future, it is abundantly evident that the trip, structured on mutual respect, shared objectives, and strong leadership, is only getting started.
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