IND v ENG 2025: “He gives us a lot of freedom…,” Suryakumar Yadav opens up on Gautam Gambhir’s coaching style

Surya's association with Gambhir goes back to their time together in the IPL for KKR.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir is on the firing line after the team’s 0-3 whitewash in a Test series against New Zealand at home and 1-3 drubbing on the recent Test tour of Australia.

However, Gambhir’s flawless coaching record in T20Is and strong partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav augur well for Team India ahead of the England series.

With 6/6 wins so far in T20Is, coach Gambhir will look to extend his unbeaten run when the series gets underway in Kolkata on Wednesday (January 22).

Surya's association with Gambhir goes back to their time together in the IPL for KKR and the skipper said the camaraderie has continued in national colours, although in different capacities.

"I've had the privilege of spending a lot of time with him. I know how he works. Without saying a word, he can read your mind," said Surya in the pre-match press conference.

"His coaching style is very simple. He gives us a lot of freedom and allows players to express themselves. He keeps everything straightforward and understands what's going on in the minds of the players," he added.

Under Gambhir’s leadership, KKR won the IPL in 2012 and 2014. He returned to the franchise as a mentor last year and guided them to their third IPL title.

"He ensures a light, relaxed atmosphere in the dressing room, which helps players perform at their best. We're definitely moving in the right direction," said Surya.

The T20I series against England will be followed by three ODIs, which will be a dress rehearsal for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, slated to be held in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9.

During the presser, Surya also talked about his Champions Trophy snub. He was asked if not getting selected for the ODIs hurts. To which, the Indian T20I captain gave a measured response.

"Why would it hurt?" he replied. "If I do well, I would have been in the Champions Trophy. If I don't do well, it's important to accept that."

While Suryakumar has established himself as one of India’s leading T20 stars, he has failed to replicate the same performance in the 50-over format, where he averages 25.76 after playing 37 matches.

"At the same time, if you see the squad, it's looking really good. Whoever is there, they are all good performers. They have done relatively well in that format for India and also playing domestic cricket, and I am very happy for them. It hurts to think that I have not done well. If I had done well, I would have stayed there," Surya remarked.