A Matter Of Patience And Faith For The Indian Cricket Team
New Zealand had an upper hand over the Indian Cricket Team in the third test match at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. It turned out to be a 3-0 whitewash. Indians are not accustomed to such sort of loss at home so the outpour has been pretty strong too. However, as a die-hard fan, it’s very important to take a step back and evaluate the bigger picture. Does this loss indicate a downfall of intent, lack of leadership or poor coaching? Let’s dive into these pressing concerns with a balanced perspective. 1. Has The Indian Cricket Team Lost Its Intent? It is easy to get frustrated when the team we respect so much does not perform as per our expectations. However the difference between losing intent and losing to a good opponent is a world of difference. India did not lose because they lacked intent. New Zealand played super disciplined cricket that checked India’s aggression at bay. Moments of victory and defeat go hand in hand in sports. Every game, lost or won, presents an opportunity for introspection. The Indian Cricket Team would have come back to attack the next series with more precision and intent, as is their norm after suffering defeats. India is a side which draws momentum from losses and infuses that into their next match. This could just give them the fuel to rise against Australia in the much-hyped Border-Gavaskar series. So, instead of doubting their intentions, maybe we should believe in their resilience and wait for them to display it. 2. Should Rohit Sharma Be Sacked As India’s Test Captain? A big no.This is the most debated question, however Rohit Sharma’s contribution to the Indian Cricket Team is more than just a win-loss record. Rohit is someone who brings aggression and inspiration to his role and leads by example. He is a great player who does not care to place his wicket on the line for the team, something that is rarely seen in modern-day cricket. The leadership brand he delivers is of a willingness to counter-attack to set the tone for a bold innings. Every captain has ups and downs. What distinguishes them is that they can support their players through it all. The very fact that Rohit gives confidence to younger cricketers like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel and Aakash Deep all of whom have already gone on to become talent prospects under his mentorship he has proven to be players’ captain who trusts other teammates and creates a nourishing atmosphere that goes onto create long-term success although it also brings short term failure. Fans can now look past the last couple of losses and remember how many times Rohit’s leadership has instilled fearlessness into the Indian Cricket Team. And patience, they say, is a test of loyalty. I do not think we need to forget the devotion for the game in Rohit Sharma when we talk about him. 3. Is The Current Coaching Panel Not Up To The Mark? Judging the coaching panel after a few series would be rather premature. Coaching at national level often needs time to make an impact and success isn’t what you can expect instantly. It would be a different ball game indeed, however Gautam Gambhir has shown what potential he holds as a tactician in his stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), guiding them to the trophy in 2024. Fans must remember that each coaching team brings a different vision to the table and for Gambhir and his unit to establish theirs, they require time and trust. Success stories are seldom built overnight and a hasty judgment only undermines their efforts. Just as we have seen past coaches shape the team over seasons, Gambhir and his panel need a chance to build their legacy. With defeat, come accusations and despair. Each of the players, coaches and leaders has put in years of practice and sacrifice to bring themselves to that playing field. So let us rally behind them with understanding and encouragement rather than bash them. As in life, the sadness makes the wins that much sweeter in sport. The Indian Cricket Team’s journey was full of heart-stopping moments of glory and times of learning. Now, when they are at a crossroads, they need their supporters to stand with them and not bashing them. After all, faith is not tested in the moments of victory however in times of adversity. Let’s hold on to that faith and let’s watch the Indian Cricket Team bounce back. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SL vs IND: ODI Series Kicks Off in Colombo
The three-match ODI series between India and Sri Lanka gets underway on Friday, 2ns August, 2024 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. Big Names Return for India Bolstered by the return of senior players, including captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, K.L. Rahul, and Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian Cricket Team is looking to keep the winning momentum going. Unlike the T20 format, India has an extremely solid core for the 50-over game; this series will go a long way in cementing places within the team and grooming future talent. Squad Focus and Strategy With only six ODIs to be played before the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025, the upcoming series becomes very important for the new coach and captain to stamp their strategy. The third pacer to complement Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj features at the top of the list of areas to focus on. On the other hand, Mohammed Shami, an exceptional performer in the World Cup last year, will be tried alongside new talent like Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, and IPL sensation Harshit Rana. The blinding six-wicket haul was by Siraj at this very venue during the Asia Cup, so he will spearhead the pace attack. Wicketkeeper Dilemma Another call pending for the Indian team is at the wicketkeeper’s position. K.L. Rahul has been effective both as a batsman and ‘keeper, but with Rishabh Pant back in the ODI set-up, the team has a strategic call to make. Pant would provide an extra left-hand option in batting, but may restrict India to five bowlers. Sri Lanka’s Injury Woes It’s an injurious start to the series for Sri Lanka, with key pacers Dilshan Madushanka and Matheesha Pathirana out of action. Clearly a case of improvements needed, their struggles in the T20 series were marked by middle-order collapses. A second-string pace attack makes Sri Lanka heavily dependent on their spinners to test India’s strong batting line-up. The team is keen to end a ten-match losing streak against India and provide a boost for their fans. INDIA Rohit Sharma (Capt.), Ꮪhubman Gill, Virat Kohli, K.L. Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana. SRI LANKA Charith Asalanka (Capt.), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz and Eshan Malinga. Match Details The first ODI will start at 14:30 IST and both the teams will be looking to start the series on a winning note. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SL vs IND: Why Is ‘Maamla Gambhir’?
India’s tour of Sri Lanka is going to be a tour to watch out for this season. This is largely due to two factors: Gautam Gambhir‘s debut as the head coach and the dawn of a new era in India’s white-ball cricket post their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph. The tour begins from 27th of July, 2024 with the 1st T20I at Pallekele. However, there are some major questions which need to be answered as the tour progresses. Will Suryakumar Yadav Rise to the Captaincy Challenge? Suryakumar Yadav, taking the helm as India’s T20I captain, is at the center of this new beginning. In 2015, his initial stint as captain ended controversially when he relinquished leadership of his domestic side following complaints about his on-field and dressing-room conduct. Fast forward nearly a decade, Suryakumar has evolved into a more composed and mature player, becoming one of T20 cricket’s greats. INDIA vs SRI LANKA T20Is- HEAD-TO-HEAD DATE MATCH RESULT VENUE 07th Jan, 2023 India won by 91 runs Rajkot (IND) 05th Jan, 2023 Sri Lanka won by 16 runs Pune (IND) 03rd Jan, 2023 India won by 2 runs Mumbai (IND) 06th Sep, 2022 Sri Lanka won by 6 wickets (with 1 ball remaining) Dubai (UAE) 27th Feb, 2022 India won by 6 wickets (with 19 balls remaining) Dharamshala (IND) Gambhir and the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee have expressed confidence in Suryakumar’s leadership qualities, which they observed during his vice-captaincy tenure at Kolkata Knight Riders. His recent captaincy in seven matches, filling in for the rested Rohit Sharma and injured Hardik Pandya, has shown promise. His performance in the 4-1 series win over Australia and a commendable 1-1 draw in South Africa shows his leadership capability. However, Suryakumar’s appointment might stir some undercurrents, given that he will be leading Hardik Pandya, who captains him at Mumbai Indians and was once seen as the likely future T20I captain. Who Will Emerge as India’s T20I Finisher? The retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have literally left a road to be filled at the top of the order, likely to be filled by Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, with Rishabh Pant at No. 3 and Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya anchoring the middle order. This configuration leaves a spot for a finisher, with Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube in contention. Gambhir’s preference for allrounders, demonstrated during his tenure at Lucknow Super Giants with players like Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, and Krunal Pandya, might favor Dube and Parag. However, Rinku Singh’s impressive track record could make him a strong contender. With new leadership and rising stars set to answer a lot of questions, India’s tour of Sri Lanka surely is going to be a ‘Gambhir Maamla’ to watch out for. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gautam Gambhir Focuses on Team Unity and Professionalism As New Head Coach
After being appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s senior team, Gautam Gambhir made a prompt and punctual appearance at his first media interaction on Monday, 22nd of July, 2024. Accompanied by national selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, Gambhir shared his vision for fostering a harmonious team atmosphere and spoke candidly about his relationship with Virat Kohli. On-Field Rivalry Turned Professional Respect Gambhir, who has had his share of intense on-field clashes with Kohli during the IPL, emphasized that their professional relationship is now based on mutual respect and maturity. “It’s good for the TRP, but our relationship is not public. What kind of a relationship I share with Virat Kohli… I think it’s between two mature individuals,” he said. “On the field, everyone has the right to fight for their own jersey and come back to a winning dressing room. But at the moment, we’re representing India, representing 140 crore Indians and I’m sure we’re going to be on the same page and try and make India proud.“ Optimistic Collaboration with Kohli Gambhir also highlighted that he has been in regular contact with Kohli, looking forward to their collaboration. “I have had a lot of chat with him… we’ve shared messages. It’s not important what we discussed or how many chats I have had with him. Just because we want headlines, it’s not important,” he said. “Right now, the most important thing is we both are going to be working extremely hard to make India proud. And that’s our job.“ Future of Senior Players: Kohli and Rohit Discussing the future of senior players Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Gambhir assured fans that both players remain motivated and ready to contribute to the team’s success in upcoming tournaments like the Champions Trophy and the tour of Australia. “I think they’ve shown what they can deliver on the big stage. Whether it is the T20 World Cup or the ODI World Cup. I think both of those guys have a lot more to offer. We’ve got the Champions Trophy, a tour of Australia, so they will be motivated,” Gambhir said. “Hopefully, they can keep their fitness till the 2027 ODI World Cup. To say how much cricket is left in them is difficult. Any team that has players of their class would love to have them for as long as possible.“ Managing Workloads: Focus on Fast Bowlers On the crucial issue of managing player workloads, particularly for key fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Gambhir stressed its importance. “He is one rare bowler, who anyone would want. You want him to play important games. That’s why the workload management for not just him but fast bowlers is important,” he explained. Support Staff Setup: Key Appointments Gambhir also shared his satisfaction with the support staff setup, announcing that Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate will join as assistant coaches, with T. Dilip continuing as the fielding coach. “I am really happy with BCCI. They’ve agreed with most things I’ve asked for. The crux of the support staff will remain as they are. The rest of the staff will be finalised after the Sri Lanka tour,” he said. He also hinted at the possible appointment of Morne Morkel as the bowling coach, with Sairaj Bahutule stepping in on an interim basis for the Sri Lanka tour. Gambhir’s approach emphasizing on unity and professional excellence promises to bring a fresh dynamic to Indian cricket as the men in blue gear up for the start of the Gambhir era. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Morne Morkel In Contention For India’s Bowling Coach Role
Former South African pacer Morne Morkel is reportedly in the running to become India’s new bowling coach, as suggested by Gautam Gambhir, the recently appointed head coach of the Indian team. Morkel, who has a wealth of coaching experience, previously served as the coach of the Pakistan team during last year’s ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India but resigned months before his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was set to expire. Gambhir’s Recommendation to BCCI Gambhir is understood to have approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Morkel for the bowling coach position. Morkel, who played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is between 2006 and 2018, has already had some discussions with the BCCI about the role. Currently residing in Australia, Morkel has built a strong reputation as an effective coach both internationally and in the IPL. Past Collaborations in IPL Gambhir and Morkel have previously worked together at the Lucknow Super Giants during the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Gambhir served as a mentor and Morkel as the bowling coach. Even after Gambhir left to join the Kolkata Knight Riders and head coach Andy Flower moved to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Morkel continued under the new head coach Justin Langer. Morkel’s Coaching Credentials At 39 years old and having retired from international cricket in 2018, Morkel remains well-versed in the latest techniques of the game. Gambhir, known for collaborating with individuals he is comfortable with, is believed to be keen on having Morkel on his coaching team. Other Candidates for the Position Other candidates linked to the bowling coach position include Lakshmipathy Balaji, Zaheer Khan and Vinay Kumar. While the BCCI has yet to make a final decision, it is expected that a conclusion will be reached soon. One consideration is Morkel’s young family and the extensive travel required for the India job. Morkel lives in the Seaforth suburb of northern Sydney with his wife Roz Kelly, a sports presenter on Channel 9, and their two children. Potential Replacement for Paras Mhambrey If appointed, Morkel would replace Paras Mhambrey, who has excelled in the role over the past three years under head coach Rahul Dravid. Gambhir has also recommended Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for other coaching positions, and the BCCI is believed to be keen on retaining fielding coach T Dilip from the outgoing Dravid regime. The cricketing community awaits the BCCI’s final decision on this key coaching position, with Morkel emerging as a strong contender to join Gambhir’s team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gautam Gambhir Appointed As Indian Cricket Team Head Coach
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 2027The 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
Team India’s Head Coach Salary, Perks, Eligibility & Responsibilities
Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that the 2024 T20 World Cup would be his last assignment. Ahead of Team India’s opening game against Ireland, Dravid confirmed the development. He also said that he won’t be reapplying for the post. This means that the BCCI has to hunt for a new coach. The job of an Indian Cricket coach involves a lot of responsibility and pressure. Coaches travel for at least 10 months a year, staying away from their families to make sure the team performs well. However, there are also big benefits. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking for a new Head Coach for the men’s national team. Rahul Dravid, the current Head Coach, had his term extended until June 2024, covering the T20 World Cup 2024 in the United States and West Indies. The BCCI has published the job description for the Head Coach of Team India (Senior Men), based in Mumbai. The job lasts for 3.5 years, from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027. Job Responsibilities The main tasks include building and managing a “world-class” cricket team that succeeds in all formats. The Head Coach will lead a group of specialist coaches and support staff, define their roles, and guide their development. Enforcing team discipline is also important. Team India’s Head Coach Eligibility Criteria Candidates need to have significant cricket experience, such as:– Playing in at least 30 Test matches or 50 ODIs, or– Coaching a full member Test-Playing Nation for at least two years. Alternatively, three years of experience as a head coach for an Associate member, IPL team, or equivalent is acceptable. Candidates must also hold a BCCI Level 3 Certification or equivalent and be below 60 years of age. SALARY FOR TEAM INDIA HEAD COACHThe salary for a national cricket coach can be very high, up to 10 crores per year. The BCCI says the salary for the Head Coach is “negotiable and will be commensurate with experience.” The exact details aren’t specified, but the BCCI emphasizes that the right candidate will be open to salary negotiations, ensuring an attractive package given the responsibilities of managing the Indian men’s team in all formats. In addition to the high salary, the national cricket coach enjoys luxurious travel and accommodation. The coach and the team travel business class and stay in the best hotels worldwide. TEAM INDIA AND COACHING STAFF’S DAILY ALLOWANCE ON AWAY TOURS DOUBLEDDuring tournaments and series, both team members and the coach receive a daily allowance for expenses. In 2019, this allowance was significantly increased to $250 (Rs 20,814.18) for overseas events, up from $125 (Rs 10,407.09). CURRENT SALARY OF TEAM INDIA HEAD COACHRahul Dravid earns Rs 12 crore a year as the head coach of Team India in all international formats. VVS Laxman temporarily replaced him and earned Rs 50 lakhs per month. Rahul Dravid’s annual salary is higher than any previous coach of the team, including Ravi Shastri and Anil Kumble. Ravi Shastri was the second highest-paid, earning Rs 9.5 crore per year when he was head coach. Rahul Dravid’s salary as head coach is also higher than some of the star players on the team, like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. WHO ELSE IS ON THE RICH-LIST AFTER DRAVID AND SHASTRI?After Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, former Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was one of the highest-paid cricket coaches of all time, earning an impressive Rs 4.5 crores. However, his salary was still much lower than the BCCI salary of Rahul Dravid. ALSO READ: Know the Richest Head Coach Candidate for Team India WHO IS NEXT AFTER DRAVID?Rahul Dravid was appointed as the interim coach for Team India in 2021, succeeding veteran cricketer Ravi Shastri. Shortly after, the former Team India player was made the permanent head coach. With Dravid’s tenure with the Indian Cricket Team ending soon and with BCCI approaching Gautam Gambhir to take on the Team India Head Coach job, the question is who would be the next in line to take up the coaching responsibility for the Indian Cricket Team? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
