IPL 2025: Rahul Dravid To Potentially Join Rajasthan Royals As Head Coach
Former Indian Cricket Team head coach Rahul Dravid, might soon make a comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2025 season. Sources revealed that the discussions are ongoing between Dravid and the franchise and fans could expect an official announcement soon. DRAVID’S CONNECTION WITH RR The 51-year-old, who recently led the Indian Cricket Team to victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, has a deep connection with Rajasthan Royals. He previously captained the Royals and played a crucial role in taking them to the final of the Champions League T20 in 2013. Even after retiring, Dravid stayed involved, mentoring the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2014 and IPL 2015 before moving on to coach various levels of Indian cricket. As a coach he has been very supportive towards his players and captains bot at the Royals and at the Indian Cricket Team. “Talks are going on between Dravid and RR and an announcement in this regard is round the corner,” a source familiar with the talks revealed. JOURNEY WITH THE INDIAN CRICKET TEAM Dravid’s coaching journey with the Indian Cricket Team reached its pinnacle with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory in June this year. His strategic approach towards the players and guidance helped Rohit Sharma and his Indian Cricket Team to secure their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title. It was a moment of immense pride for Dravid, who had faced a setback in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against Australia. A ROYAL HOMECOMING ON THE CARDS Having also served as the head coach after succeeding Ravi Shastri in 2021 and as chairman of the National Cricket Academy, Dravid’s potential return to the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals hints at a promising new chapter. The Rajasthan Royals is renowned for nurturing young talent and Dravid’s vast experience and knowledge could be a massive boost for the Royals. 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
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 Head Coach Race: Know who is the richest ‘probable’ candidate?
After the BCCI invited applications for the post of India head coach, reports of possible successors to Rahul Dravid started flowing in, and CSK head coach Stephen Fleming’s name has to come first. Former Australia coach and current LSG head coach Justin Langer has also expressed his curiosity. The BCCI’s job description for the post of India head coach is as detailed as it can get. Being such a high-profile and well-paying job, there will be no shortage of applicants. But who will be the right fit to take over the reins from Rahul Dravid? And most importantly, what’s their current net worth. Gautam GambhirWith a net worth of $23 million, he is currently ranked as the 10th richest Indian cricketer. Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir is known for his solid batting technique and ability to perform under pressure. He played a crucial role in India’s victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. Justin LangerAs of 2024, Justin Langer, the former Australian cricketer turned coach, boasts a considerable net worth primarily amassed through his successful career in cricket and subsequent coaching endeavors. With lucrative contracts from playing for Australia and various domestic teams, coupled with endorsements and coaching fees, Langer’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. His coaching stint with the Australian national team, which included guiding them to numerous victories, further bolstered his financial standing. Additionally, Langer’s involvement in various business ventures and investments contributes to his impressive wealth accumulation, solidifying his status as one of cricket’s financially successful personalities. Stephen FlemingAs of 2024, Stephen Fleming, the former New Zealand cricket captain turned coach, commands a substantial net worth, reflecting his illustrious career in cricket and subsequent coaching ventures. With earnings stemming from playing for New Zealand and various domestic T20 leagues, coupled with coaching fees and endorsements, Fleming’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $8 to $10 million. His successful coaching stints with teams like Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the national team of New Zealand have significantly contributed to his financial success. Moreover, Fleming’s astute investments and business ventures have further bolstered his wealth over the years, cementing his position as one of cricket’s financially prominent figures. V.V.S. LaxmanIn 2024, V.V.S. Laxman, the former Indian cricket player, has a significant amount of money. He earned a lot from playing cricket for India and in different leagues around the world. Along with that, he makes money from coaching and sponsorships. His net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. Laxman is also involved in business activities, which helps him increase his wealth. Overall, he’s considered to be quite financially successful in the world of cricket. Andy FlowerIn 2024, Andy Flower, the former Zimbabwean cricketer and coach, has made a lot of money from playing cricket for Zimbabwe and in different cricket leagues worldwide. Also, he earns from coaching teams and from sponsorship deals. His net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. Flower also invests in different businesses, which helps him grow his wealth. Overall, he’s considered to be quite financially successful in the cricket world. With a lucrative BCCI coaching contract on the cards for any one of these probables, the lucky one would have his net worth increased soon. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
