Gautam Gambhir has been named as the new head coach of the senior Indian Men’s Cricket Team, as confirmed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Tuesday. The 42-year-old’s first assignment will be overseeing the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, comprising 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is starting from July 27, 2024.
Succession from Rahul Dravid
Gambhir succeeds Rahul Dravid, who served as head coach from November 2021 until June 2024, stepping down after India’s victorious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign in the USA and West Indies. Dravid led India to new heights including reaching the final of the ICC World Test Championship and the 2023 50-over ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, as well as winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024.
Responsibilities and Vision
“In his new role as Head Coach of Team India, Gambhir will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Indian cricket team,” stated the BCCI in a press release. “His focus will be on fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, while also nurturing young talent and preparing the team for future challenges on the global stage.“
Experience and Background
Although Gambhir lacks coaching experience on the international arena, he has been a mentor for several IPL teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders, who clinched the championship this year. Gambhir was also a part of the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2022 and 2023.
As a player, Gambhir had major contributions towards Team India’s World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011 during his 12-year international career from 2004 to 2016, featuring in 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is.
BCCI’s Endorsement
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed his enthusiasm on Gambhir’s appointment: “Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward.“
Gambhir’s Commitment
Gambhir himself commented on his new role: “India is my identity, and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honored to be back, albeit in a different capacity. My goal remains the same – to make every Indian proud. The men in blue carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians, and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!“
Acknowledgment of Rahul Dravid’s Legacy
Shah also extended gratitude to Rahul Dravid, acknowledging his successful tenure: “Under his guidance, Team India emerged as a dominant force across formats, including being crowned ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Champions!“
BCCI President’s Confidence
BCCI President Roger Binny expressed confidence in Gambhir: “The Board would like to thank former Head Coach, Mr Rahul Dravid for his brilliant run with the team. Team India now embarks on a journey under a new coach – Mr Gautam Gambhir. His appointment as Head Coach marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. His experience, dedication, and vision for the game make him the ideal candidate to guide our team forward. We are confident that under his leadership, Team India will continue to excel and make the nation proud,“
Gambhir’s Major Assignments During His Coaching Tenure
– India’s Tour Of Australia 2024 (5 Test)
– ICC Champion’s Trophy 2025
– ICC World Test Championship 2025
– India’s Tour Of England 2025 (5 Test)
– ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
– India’s Tour Of New Zealand 2026 (2 Test)
– ICC World Test Championship 2027
– ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027
The appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach is a start of a new era for Indian cricket, with expectations high for his leadership and coaching abilities to further elevate the India’s performances in bilateral tournaments as well as in ICC tournaments.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
