Suryakumar Yadav Opens Up On Bond With Gautam Gambhir, Says "Even Though I Wasn't..."

India captain Suryakumar Yadav has opened up on his bond with new head coach Gautam Gambhir, with the two set to join forces for the first time in Indian colours during the first T20I against Sri Lanka in Pallekele. India will take on Sri Lanka in the series opener on Saturday. Suryakumar has been named as captain for the T20I rubber, which will be the first series of Gambhir's much-anticipated tenure as head coach of the Indian team. Suryakumar, who has led India in the past, admitted that he has enjoyed being a leader, even when he is not captaining the side.

"I have always enjoyed being a leader on the field even though I was not the captain. I have always learnt a lot of things from different captains. It's a good feeling and a great responsibility," Suryakumar told BCCI.TV ahead of the first T20I against Sri Lanka Pallekele on Saturday.

Speaking on his relationship with Gambhir, Suryakumar recalled his early days in the IPL when he was playing for KKR under the leadership of the current India head coach.

"This relationship is special because in 2014 I played under him in KKR. It was special because from there only I got opportunities. The relationship is still strong. He (Gambhir) knows how I work, what is my mindset when I come to practice sessions. I also know how he tries to work as a coach. It's all about the lovely relationship we have and very excited to see how it goes forward," he added.

Talking about one big lesson this sport has given him, Suryakumar Yadav said that it has taught him to be humble and add a sense of balance to his life.

"I think the most important thing I have learnt from this sport is how humble you are after achieving something or even after when you are not doing well. That is one thing