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'Aapko Pata Chal Hi Jayega': Suryakumar Hints At Taking Over Mumbai Indians Captaincy From Hardik Pandya

Suryakumar hinted at leading Mumbai Indians [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/x.com]Suryakumar hinted at leading Mumbai Indians [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/x.com]

As India gears up for their three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, all eyes are on Suryakumar Yadav, the man who has become the lynchpin of the team in the shortest format. Known for his explosive batting and innovative stroke play, Yadav has donned the captain's hat for the national team with aplomb. However, when it comes to leading a team in the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL), the 34-year-old star has yet to get the nod.

During the pre-match press conference, Suryakumar Yadav found himself puzzled by a question that came from left field—his thoughts on becoming an IPL captain. The Mumbai-born cricketer took the curveball in stride and responded with a smile, showing that even off the field, he knows how to handle the pressure.

Suryakumar Yadav Teases Captaincy Role at Mumbai Indians

“Aapne googly daal diya (You put me in a spot with a wrong ’un),” Yadav chuckled in response to the reporter’s query about IPL captaincy.

He then shifted gears and reflected on his role as India’s T20I captain, highlighting how much he enjoys the responsibility.

Having first tasted captaincy in 2023 during a five-match series against Australia, Yadav’s leadership proved golden, as India clinched 4-1 victory. His second assignment came later that year in a tightly contested series against South Africa, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

More recently, Yadav led India to a whitewash against Sri Lanka, as the team triumphed 3-0 under his captaincy, fresh off their T20 World Cup 2024 victory.

The right-hander spoke fondly of his experience, noting that he has learned valuable lessons from captains he has played under, especially his mentor at Mumbai Indians, Rohit Sharma.

Learning from the Best Rohit Sharma’s Influence

Yadav was quick to highlight the influence of his time under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy at Mumbai Indians, a franchise where he has been a cornerstone player.

“When I was playing under Rohit bhai’s captaincy in MI, I used to give my input on whatever I felt at that time,” Yadav recalled, hinting at his growing tactical awareness.

While Suryakumar has yet to lead a side in the IPL, his role as a key advisor to Sharma shows that he has already been preparing for the day he might take the reins.

The Road Ahead Uncertain but Promising

As for the prospect of IPL captaincy, Yadav played it cool, saying he’s not losing sleep over it. 

“I am really enjoying this new role as India captain. For India also, feeling good. Aage dekhte hain, baaki aapko pata toh chal hi jayega (Let’s see how it goes. You’ll know in due course of time),” he said with a grin, leaving the door open for the future but not dwelling on what’s to come.

One thing is clear: whether or not Suryakumar Yadav becomes an IPL captain, he is already making waves with his fearless approach and natural leadership. As they say, the ball is now in his court, and with every match, he continues to show that he’s ready for whatever challenges come his way.

In the meantime, Yadav remains laser-focused on leading India to another series win, this time against Bangladesh, eager to add another feather to his cap in what has already been a glittering T20I career.