India’s middle-order batter Rinku Singh has heaped praise on head coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025, highlighting the unique blend of discipline and warmth that the former India opener brings to the dressing room. Known for his aggressive on-field persona and fierce competitiveness, Gambhir, according to Rinku, also possesses a side rarely visible to fans.

Singh first experienced this during the 2024 IPL season when Gambhir mentored Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where the young batter felt fully supported and encouraged to play his natural game.

“He backs every player well. During my KKR days, he gave us a lot of freedom and confidence. He would say, ‘Go play and do what you want to do.’ Everyone knows he is aggressive and loves to win, but he also prays, stays calm during matches, and supports players off the field,” Rinku Singh told News24.

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The 27-year-old also shared glimpses of Gambhir’s lighter, more personable side. Despite his stern on-field image, Gambhir enjoys music in the dressing room, joins in banter with senior players, and creates a relaxed environment for the squad.

“It’s not that he is always serious. He likes to listen to songs in the dressing room. Ramandeep used to be our DJ and play music, and Gambhir loved creating a cool vibe. He also jokes around with the senior players, which makes the environment fun,” Rinku Singh added.

Gambhir’s coaching career has had its highs and lows. After guiding KKR to their third IPL title in 2024 under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy, he transitioned to India’s head coach role. The initial period was challenging, with losses in the ODI series against England and heavy defeats in Tests against New Zealand and Australia.

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However, his tactical acumen shone during the recent five-Test England series, where India staged comebacks to draw 2-2. Looking ahead, Gambhir faces his next major test at the Asia Cup 2025, where he will reunite with Rinku Singh in India’s 15-member squad, aiming to blend experience and youth to compete at the highest level.