The determined Gautam Gambhir has been named the head coach of the Indian cricket team by the BCCI, bringing his renowned “tenacity and leadership” to the role previously held by the successful Rahul Dravid. Gambhir’s arrival marks a new chapter in India’s coaching setup, with changes on the horizon.
To build a strong coaching team, Gambhir wants to bring Abhishek Nayar, the assistant coach at Kolkata Knight Riders, and former India and Royal Challengers Bangalore pacer R Vinay Kumar as the bowling coach. According to a report by RevSportz, Gambhir has already submitted these names to the BCCI, and with his coaching tenure starting with the Sri Lanka series, quick action from the BCCI is expected.
At 42, Gambhir was the leading candidate to succeed Dravid, whose tenure ended on a high note with a T20 World Cup win in Barbados last month. Expressing his honor and excitement, Gambhir said in a BCCI statement, “It is an absolute honor to serve my tricolor, my people, my country. I congratulate Rahul Dravid and his support staff for their exemplary run. I am excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India. I have always taken pride in donning the Indian jersey, and it will be no different in this new role.”
Gambhir emphasized his eagerness to work closely with the BCCI, Head of Cricket VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, most importantly, the players to achieve success in upcoming tournaments. His first assignment will be the tour of Sri Lanka for three T20Is and three ODIs starting July 27.
BCCI President Roger Binny extended gratitude to Rahul Dravid for his excellent tenure and welcomed Gambhir, stating, “Team India now embarks on a journey under a new coach – Mr. Gautam Gambhir.” The Cricket Advisory Committee, comprising Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjpe, and Sulakshana Naik, unanimously recommended Gambhir for the position after the BCCI invited applications on May 13.
As Gambhir steps into his new role, Indian cricket fans eagerly anticipate the fresh strategies and leadership he will bring to the team.
