'BAHUT SPECIAL HAI': SURYAKUMAR YADAV OPENS UP ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH NEW COACH GAUTAM GAMBHIR

NEW DELHI: Indian cricket is set to embark on a new chapter as they face hosts Sri Lanka in the first of a three-match T20I series on Saturday. This series marks the beginning of a new era under head coach Gautam Gambhir and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Gambhir, who recently took over from Rahul Dravid following India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, has already made significant changes to the team.

One of the most notable decisions was appointing Suryakumar Yadav as the T20I captain, replacing Hardik Pandya. This choice sparked considerable discussion, but as the series opener approaches, the focus is now on the present and the future.

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Suryakumar Yadav, known for his aggressive batting style and innovative shots, shared insights into his relationship with Gambhir, describing it as both special and strong.

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"Yeh jo relationship hai, bahut special hai. Kyunki main jab 2014 me gaya tha, I played under him for KKR. It was special because wahan se opportunity mila khelne ka, franchise ke liye aur... Jo bolte hena, tum teen kadam chale, aap bhi do kadam aaye, aur bich me kahi toh mile. Toh waisa relationship tha. Aur abhi bhi woh relationship waise ka waise hi hai, strong," Suryakumar said in a video released by BCCI on its social media handle.

Reflecting on their past experiences at Kolkata Knight Riders, Suryakumar emphasized the mutual understanding and support that has defined their relationship. He is optimistic about how this dynamic will translate into their new roles within the Indian team.

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"But he knows ki main kaise kaam karta hoon. What my mindset is when I come to practice sessions. How he tries to work as a coach. And it's all about that lovely relationship we have and very excited to see how it goes forward," Suryakumar concluded.

As India prepares for the series against Sri Lanka, the team's strategy and performance under the new leadership will be closely watched. Gambhir's tenure as head coach and Suryakumar's captaincy promise a fresh approach, aiming to build on India's recent successes and take the team to new heights.