NEW DELHI: India all-rounder Axar Patel has praised new T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav for being a “bowlers’ captain” who allows bowlers the freedom to execute their plans. This commendation followed India’s 43-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first match of their T20I series in Pallekele on Saturday, where Yadav’s leadership style was credited for the win.
Suryakumar Yadav assumed the captaincy role and led India to a successful start with his supportive and strategic approach on the field.Axar Patel, speaking at the post-match press conference, emphasized Yadav’s positive impact on the bowlers through his continuous encouragement.
“I played in the last Australia series with Surya bhai (as captain). I know that he is a bowlers’ captain. He gives you a free hand (in a way) that you decide first,” Axar was quoted as saying by PTI. “Whenever you get hit, he comes and says that it was a good ball. He keeps giving you inputs. As a player, there is a good bond with him.”Axar recalled the five-match T20I series against Australia in India late last year, which India won 4-1, noting Yadav’s consistent leadership style. “As a captain, I have also played with him in the last five matches (against Australia) and when I was playing today, I didn’t feel much change,” he added.
In the opening T20I, Yadav’s tactical expertise was highlighted, particularly during the first three challenging overs. Axar mentioned how Yadav’s strategic suggestions helped the team maintain focus on taking wickets despite the opposition’s early runs.

The team’s batting strategy focused on maximizing left and right-hand combinations to disrupt the bowlers’ rhythm and create scoring opportunities. “Our team has four lefties and four righties. If there is a left-right combination (in the middle), it becomes very hard for the bowlers to maintain the line and lengths consistently, especially with rotations with singles,” Axar explained.
Suryakumar Yadav batted at No. 3 and Rishabh Pant at No. 4 in the opening T20I, showcasing the team’s strategy to leverage its versatile batting options.
Axar also discussed the impact of the new coaching staff, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, while underscoring the continuity in the team’s approach and atmosphere. He stressed that players’ performance on the field is the constant driving force behind the team’s success.

“I have been playing for 10 years. I have played with different coaches and captains. I don’t think a lot will change in the team,” Axar said. “When we were talking in the team meeting, they also said the same thing that the coach and captain keep changing but the team remains the same and the 11 or 15 players who stay, they have to do it.”
Axar expressed confidence in the direction of the team and the minimal impact of coaching changes. “They have told us that we will play the way we have been playing. Obviously, the coach and his input can be different. The thinking can be different, they keep telling you here and there. But there is not much change in the team’s atmosphere,” he added.
India will aim to build on their strong start as they continue their T20I series against Sri Lanka, with Yadav’s leadership and the team’s strategic approach playing crucial roles in their campaign.