Suryakumar Yadav’s appointment as India’s T20I captain raised eyebrows, with many expecting Hardik Pandya to take over the mantle. However, the duo has forged a strong bond, with Pandya expressing gratitude for the freedom granted to him by Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir.
After India’s 3-0 clean sweep against Bangladesh, Pandya was named player of the series. He credited the team’s success to the empowering environment created by the captain and coach. “The kind of freedom the skipper and the coach has given has been fantastic,” Pandya said. “That is coming to all the players who are playing.”
Pandya emphasized the importance of enjoying the game and celebrating each other’s successes. “When the dressing room is enjoying, when everyone’s enjoying everyone’s success, you feel like doing more,” he explained.
Reflecting on his own performance, Pandya attributed his success to improved fitness and workload management. “Body has been fantastic, God has been kind to help me out,” he said.
When asked about his favorite shot of the match, Pandya recalled a helicopter chip shot over the cover region. “Over the covers when I just chipped it,” he said.
The harmonious relationship between Yadav and Pandya has fostered a positive team atmosphere, contributing to India’s recent success in the T20I format. Pandya’s gratitude for the support and freedom he has received highlights the importance of a collaborative and empowering leadership style.
