The Board of Control for Cricket in India recently announced that Gautam Gambhir, a former Indian cricketer, is now the new head coach of the Indian team. Gambhir will take over the position from Rahуl Drаvid, whose term got over after India’s successful campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024. The official announcement was thus made by secretary Jay Shah of the BCCI; the cricket fraternity reacted and expressed its excitement.
One such commendation came from former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis. “Gambhir’s got a great cricketing brain, and certainly has the leadership qualities to propel India to even greater heights,” he said. Kallis expressed confidence that Gambhir would lead the Indian team to new heights in cricket and prayed for his success in his new assignment.
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“It’s terrific to see Gautam making that step into coaching. He has got a fantastic cricket brain and a lot of passion for the game. His aggressive style and ability to think strategically will be an absolute boon for the Indian team. I am sure they, as players, will gain plenty out of him. I wish him all the best—perhaps not too much joy against us!” Jacques Kallis observed in a chat with Star Sports.
The news also drew praise from former South African pacer Dale Steyn, he said that Gambhir’s aggression on the field would be brought into his coaching as well.
“I’m a big fan of Gautam Gambhir. His aggression on the pitch was something I admired. He’s one of those few Indian players who would stand his ground and come back at you. So, in terms of mindset, that is probably something he can bring into the dressing room, which can aid some of the players,” Dale Steyn opined.
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Steyn further added that what the world of cricket needs is a more attacking game, and Gambhir’s style is going to infuse some life into the Indian side as well. “Cricket needs people who can play with a bit more intensity and aggression. With league cricket, we are often too friendly with the opposition. That is not what one wants. Gambhir has that spirit in him,” Dale Steyn said.
Gambhir’s head coach tenure will finally begin with India’s tour of Sri Lanka in the last week of July – three T20Is will be played followed by as many ODIs. Already, the cricketing fraternity is waiting to see how Gamabhirs’ leadership goes on to shape the future of Indian cricket.
