Tue Jan 21 17:17:52 UTC 2025: ## Suryakumar Yadav Assures Strong Bond with Hardik Pandya Despite Leadership Shift

**Kolkata, West Bengal, January 21, 2025** – India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, has moved to quell any speculation of a rift with Hardik Pandya following a change in the team’s leadership structure. While Pandya previously served as Yadav’s deputy, Axar Patel has been promoted to vice-captain after his strong performance at the T20 World Cup 2024.

Yadav emphasized the continued strong relationship between himself and Pandya, stating that Pandya remains a key member of the leadership group and is actively involved in team discussions. He attributed Patel’s promotion to his significant contributions during India’s World Cup victory.

“The relationship with Hardik has been really great,” Yadav said in a pre-match press conference. “Axar has been given that added responsibility because of his performance in the World Cup. But Hardik is also part of the leading group. He’s always around, both in discussions and on the field.”

The Indian squad for the upcoming T20I series against England includes Suryakumar Yadav (C), Axar Patel (VC), Hardik Pandya, and other key players. The series is set to begin shortly.

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