Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has shared that he is open to the idea of coaching the Indian men’s cricket team. Ganguly, however, served as the Team Director of Delhi Capitals from 2018-19 to 2022-24 as well.

“I never really thought about it because I got into different roles,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI when he was asked if he would like to coach the Indian team. “I finished (competitive cricket) in 2013 and then became Board (BCCI) president,”

When he was asked if he wanted to become India’s coach, Ganguly said: “We’ll see what the future holds. I’m just 50 (53), so let’s see what happens. I’m open to it. We’ll see where it goes.”

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Ganguly also praised head coach Gautam Gambhir, noting his progress since the Champions Trophy win in Dubai earlier this year. Ganguly applauded his passion and straightforward nature as well.

“Gautam (Gambhir) is doing a good job. He started off a little slow, losing to Australia and New Zealand, but he picked up with the Champions Trophy. This is going to be a big series (vs England),” Ganguly said. “I haven’t seen him from very close in this role, but I know he is very passionate. I haven’t observed his strategies closely because I haven’t worked with him as a coach.”

He stated again, “He’s very straightforward, he sees things clearly, and he’s very open about what he feels, about the team, players, people, everything. From the outside, you can tell he’s a very transparent person – what you see is what you get.”

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Sourav Ganguly also recalled his playing days, noting Gambhir’s respect for senior players as well. He also believes Gambhir should be given time to grow as a coach and learn over time.

“I’ve played with him. He was a great guy with a lot of respect for me and the senior players. Even now, I can see he is extremely passionate about his job. I wish him all the best. He’s just a year into the job, and this will be an important (England) tour. He struggled a bit in Australia, but just like everyone else, he’ll learn, he’ll grow, and he’ll become better,” Sourav Ganguly concluded.