India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav gives bold verdict on Gautam Gambhir's coaching

India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav has opened up about the cultural shift within the national side, attributing it to head coach Gautam Gambhir’s philosophy of putting collective success ahead of individual glory.

Since Gambhir assumed charge in July 2024, India’s white-ball fortunes have surged dramatically. Fresh off their T20 World Cup triumph later that year, the team has dominated the shortest format, clinching nine consecutive bilateral series and lifting the Asia Cup in 2025. The numbers underline the transformation: 31 victories from 41 matches since Gambhir’s arrival, with only six defeats, alongside two ties and two no-results.

Reflecting on the coach’s influence, Suryakumar said the biggest change has been mental rather than structural. While the personnel and environment remain largely the same, the priorities have shifted. Gambhir, he explained, has steadily nurtured a mindset where team objectives outweigh personal achievements.

Speaking at the pre-tournament captains’ meet, the Indian skipper noted that the message has been consistently reinforced over the past year, creating a dressing-room culture rooted in selflessness and shared responsibility.

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To underline the point, Suryakumar pointed to Ishan Kishan’s approach in the recent T20I against New Zealand in Thiruvananthapuram. With a century within reach, Kishan chose to play a fearless shot, clearing the ropes to reach the milestone—an act that reflected the team-first mentality rather than caution for individual records.

Suryakumar also highlighted Gambhir’s emphasis on maintaining a relaxed and close-knit environment. Regular team dinners and outings, he said, have helped strengthen bonds and foster trust, allowing players in the middle to take bold decisions without hesitation—small cultural changes that have made a significant impact on India’s success.