Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir has shed light on his stance regarding family members accompanying players during international tours. This comes after the BCCI reportedly barred families from traveling with the Indian men’s team earlier this year, a decision that sparked conversations across cricketing circles.
Speaking with Cheteshwar Pujara on Sony Sports Network, Gautam Gambhir clarified that while he values the importance of family, he believes national duty should take precedence. “Family is important, no doubt,” he said. “But you have to understand, this is not a holiday. We’re here for a much bigger purpose—representing our country. Very few people get this opportunity, and when you do, your focus has to be on making India proud.”
ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar Compares Rishabh Pant to Alcaraz During Star-Studded Wimbledon 2025 Appearance
The former World Cup winner emphasized that he isn’t opposed to families traveling, but reiterated the need for clear priorities. “If you’re committed to the cause, everything else aligns. The goal of winning for the country is far more important than any personal comfort,” he added.
Gautam Gambhir, who briefly returned home during the ongoing England series due to a family emergency before rejoining the team, also gave a glimpse into his relentless work ethic. When asked if he ever switches off during a hectic tour, the response was immediate.
Gautam Gambhir: “I actually never switch off and sometimes, and it’s very funny, and it’s very weird, honestly…”https://t.co/BFAGOXWjwC
— News18 CricketNext (@cricketnext) July 10, 2025
“I don’t really switch off,” Gautam Gambhir admitted. “The funny thing is, right after we won the last Test, the first thought in my mind wasn’t celebration—it was ‘What’s the combination for the next match?’ Even when I went back to my room, I was thinking about team balance, strategies. That’s just how I function.”
WATCH – Sachin Tendulkar Lauds Shubman Gill’s Captaincy and Batting Brilliance in England Series
He concluded by saying, “As a coach, the job doesn’t end with a win. Every day is a new challenge, and for me, every day on tour is a switch-on day.”
