India are all set to face Sri Lanka in an exciting three-match T20I series, marking the dawn of a new era in India's T20I setup. The series is particularly consequential as it will be the first assignment for new head coach Gautam Gambhir, and the team will be led by their newly appointed skipper Suryakumar Yadav.

Suryakumar Yadav steps into the leadership role after it was vacated by Rohit Sharma, who recently announced his retirement from T20 internationals at the end of T20I World Cup 2024, in which India emerged triumphant with title victory. Suryakumar Yadav, recognised for his explosive batting, has been a pivotal figure in India’s T20I setup. 

As he dons captaincy hat, his leadership skills will be closely watched, with India starting a new era in T20Is. Yadav, who has led India previously as stand-in skipper, producing positive results, is expected to bring a fresh approach and a wealth of experience.  

Equally significant is the appointment of former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir as head coach, succeeding outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid. Gambhir will be coaching India across all formats following Rahul Dravid's departure. Dravid's tenure as head coach was valid till the T20I World Cup 2024 as he decided not to renew his contract. 

Gambhir’s approach will be under the spotlight as he gets ready to begin his coaching journey with team India. Gautam, in the past, has been part of coaching staffs at the Indian Premier League, playing a significant role. He, most recently, as a mentor created a huge impact at Kolkata Knight Riders, leading them to the title victory.

In the lead up to the series, India announced a 15-member squad filled with familiar faces. In the batting order, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav are there, while their bowling lineup has the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed in the pace department. And the spin attack will be managed by Ravi Bishnoi, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. The first T20I match between India and Sri Lanka will be played on Saturday at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele.