From a surprise elevation to T20I captain to showing exceptional man-management skills, Surya is proving to be the right choice for India’s young squad.
January 30, 2025: Suryakumar Yadav’s rise to becoming India’s T20I captain has been a journey filled with surprises, skill, and adaptability. For former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, the decision to elevate Surya as captain following the team’s World Cup success came as a shock. However, he now believes the Mumbai batter is the ideal leader for India’s revamped squad.
Also Read: Khawaja, Smith, Inglis Shine And power Australia To Domination Against Srilanka (Day 2)
“It was a surprise when Surya was named captain. Until that point, Hardik Pandya seemed to be the captain-designate,” Bangar shared on Star Sports’ Deep Point. Despite the initial surprise, Bangar acknowledged Surya’s transition into leadership has been seamless.
A Leader for a New Generation
After senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja retired, Surya became the leader of a young and dynamic squad. “His man-management skills stand out. It’s early days, but he seems like the perfect leader for this group,” Bangar remarked.
Also Read: Harbhajan Singh Asks Virat Kohli To ‘Enjoy’ Amid Ranji Trophy Return
With a remarkable T20I record of 16 wins and just four losses as captain, Suryakumar has cemented his place as a leader who can inspire and guide. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar added, “He’s by far the best player in this T20I side. His temperament, imagination, and adaptability are his defining traits.”
Also Read: Steve Smith Names 3 Australian Stars Who Could Join Him In 10,000 Test Runs Club
A Batter Who Thinks Ahead
Bangar praised Surya’s unique ability to adapt mid-delivery. “His imagination and courage set him apart. During the Asia Cup, we analyzed how he anticipates bowlers’ adjustments and has an alternate plan ready. It’s this 360-degree batting combined with adaptability that makes him special,” Bangar said.
Excitement for the Future
Manjrekar expressed excitement for Surya’s long-term leadership and the opportunities it brings for other players. “With strong coaching support, Surya can be a great leader. I hope to see him influence team selection, bringing players like Abhishek Sharma, Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson, and Varun Chakravarthy into the fold,” he said.
Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy marks a new chapter in Indian cricket, one that promises innovation, adaptability, and a leader capable of taking the team to new heights.
Tags:
- Suryakumar Yadav Captaincy
- Indian Cricket Team Leadership
- T20I Captaincy Record
- Hardik Pandya vs Surya Debate
- Sanjay Bangar Analysis
- India’s Young Cricket Squad