In their first practice session under newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, Indian cricketers, especially T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, exuded positivity. The break following their T20 World Cup victory proved beneficial as they geared up for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, featuring three T20Is starting July 27 followed by three ODIs from August 2.
New Delhi, 24th july 2024
The Sri Lanka tour symbolizes a new era in Indian cricket, following the exhilaration of winning their first ICC trophy in 11 years. With Rahul Dravid’s coaching tenure concluded and the retirements of captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20Is, the selectors faced the immediate task of appointing a new T20I captain. They opted for Suryakumar Yadav over Hardik Pandya, citing Suryakumar’s perceived durability and availability.
The team’s first practice session in Pallekele lacked tension, focusing on running drills, catching practice, and one-on-one exchanges. Captain Suryakumar Yadav actively engaged with players while Gambhir provided batting advice to Sanju Samson and discussed strategies with all-rounder Shivam Dube.
Following the rigorous three-hour session, the players boarded the team bus, captured in a heartening moment by Sports Fact Real on YouTube. Coach Gambhir took the front seat, with Hardik Pandya alongside him. Both appeared cheerful and shared a light-hearted moment, reflecting a positive team spirit. Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar sat just behind Gambhir, overseeing the atmosphere.
This scene underscores the beginning of a promising new chapter for Indian cricket under Gambhir’s leadership, with Suryakumar Yadav at the helm and camaraderie evident among players and coaching staff alike
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