Team India has left for Sri Lanka to participate in the three-match T20I and ODI series. The T20I side departed from Mumbai on Monday (July 22).

New leadership and squad changes

Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed his first press conference in his new role. Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as India’s new T20I captain following the retirements of senior players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja.

Rohit will return to captain the ODI side, with Kohli will also play in the 50-over format series. Shubman Gill has been named the new vice-captain for both the ODI and T20I teams, succeeding experienced players like Hardik Pandya.

Also READ: Will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play the 2027 ODI World Cup? Head coach Gautam Gambhir gives an update

Hardik Pandya’s warm interaction with Abhishek Nayar

Before Men in Blue’s departure to Sri Lanka, Hardik  was seen sharing a warm hug with new assistant coach Abhishek Nayar at the Mumbai airport. This heartfelt moment highlighted the positive atmosphere within the team despite recent changes and challenges. Hardik, who is part of the T20I squad, engaged in light-hearted conversation and maintained a cheerful demeanor, reflecting his readiness for the upcoming series.

Here’s the video:

Hardik’s role and fitness challenges

Hardik has joined the team for the T20I series but will not participate in the ODI matches, a decision influenced by his ongoing fitness issues. Despite his pivotal role in previous matches, Hardik’s fitness concerns led to the selection of Suryakumar as the T20I captain. BCCI chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, emphasized Pandya’s importance to the team but acknowledged that fitness challenges impacted his role and availability.

Also READ: Dinesh Karthik picks 4 players to fill Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli void in T20Is