"Rohit Sharma is a true role model", says Suryakumar Yadav ahead of India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener

The India National Cricket Team is ready to play against the UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener on Wednesday, September 10, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has called modern-day great Rohit Sharma the ultimate role model. The SKY of Indian cricket said that Rohit Sharma has inspired him. He has learned a lot from the ODI captain while playing under him for 7–8 years.

The India National Cricket Team will play its first match of the Asia Cup 2025 against the UAE on Wednesday, September 10, at the Dubai International Stadium. Suryakumar Yadav will lead India in a major tournament for the first time after taking over from Rohit Sharma last year.

Ahead of the opener, Suryakumar Yadav was interviewed by Sony Sports Network. When asked to describe his team in three words, he said: "Entertainment, entertainment, entertainment."

Talking about leading India in a mega event, he said: "Lot of nerves, good responsibility obviously, but with such an amazing group around, with so much talent, I think it's going to be good fun."

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Learning from Rohit Sharma and Captaincy Style

Suryakumar Yadav praised Rohit Sharma as a role model for his leadership. He said: "I've played with Rohit Bhai for 7–8 years in franchise cricket. When he led India in this format for 3–4 years, I learned many tricks from him. He’s been a role model as a leader for India, so I’ve learned a lot from him."

About his own captaincy style, he said: "My style is instinctive on the field. I always try to create a calm environment. Always have a smile on your face, enjoy the game, whether things are going your way or not."

India vs Pakistan Preview

India will play arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium. Suryakumar said: "There’s a lot happening between the teams, but on the field, aggression and focus remain the same."

He also emphasized team unity: "I want my team to stay together, no matter the results. Sometimes we win and feel on top of the world. Sometimes we lose. But however the ship is sailing, stick together."