Thu Nov 07 15:28:10 UTC 2024: ## Suryakumar Yadav Defends Rohit Sharma’s Leadership, Reveals Own Captaincy Style
**Durban, South Africa:** India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has come to the defense of his Mumbai Indians teammate and Test captain Rohit Sharma, highlighting the leadership qualities he has learned from him.
Speaking ahead of the first T20I against South Africa, Yadav addressed the pressure on Rohit after India’s recent 0-3 Test series defeat to New Zealand. He emphasized that “in life, being balanced is important,” and praised Rohit’s consistent character despite wins and losses. “I have never seen his character change after his good and bad times,” Yadav stated, adding that he has seen Rohit “grow as a player and as a leader.”
Yadav also shed light on his own leadership style, which he describes as a blend of Rohit’s approach with a “bit of his own masala.” He values the importance of building relationships with players off the field, similar to Rohit’s approach. “When I am not on the field, I try to spend time with the players, eat with them go out for dinner and travel with them,” he said. He believes this helps foster trust and confidence amongst the team.
Yadav further outlined his captaincy style, emphasizing the importance of allowing players freedom and clarity of thought, especially in the fast-paced T20 format. He aims to identify players’ strengths and create a comfortable environment for them to thrive. “Giving them a comfort zone is very important,” he added.
This T20I series marks the start of a new chapter for the Indian team with a young squad featuring seven members of the T20 World Cup-winning team. While the Test regulars are preparing for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Yadav is leading the charge in South Africa, ready to showcase his own leadership style, heavily influenced by the captain he admires, Rohit Sharma.
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