Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir has stated that it would be an “honour” for him to coach the Indian cricket team. His comments came amid speculation of him being the next head coach as the BCCI is searching for the next head coach as the stint of Rahul Dravid is about to end following the end of the T20 World Cup 2024 in June. Gambhir interacted with students during an event at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi where he was asked about coaching the Indian team and helping them win the World Cup as well.
“I have not answered this question, although a lot of people have asked me. But I have to answer you now. I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team. You are representing 140 crore Indians and those across the globe as well,” Gambhir said with a smile on his face.
With India all set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 in New York, they will try to lift their second title. Their first title in the tournament came in the inaugural edition in 2007 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. And, Gambhir believes India winning the World Cup is a collective effort of every Indian, both on and off the field as well.
“It is 140 crore Indians who will help India win the World Cup. If everyone starts praying for us and we start playing and representing them, India will win the World Cup. The most important thing is to be fearless.”
However, recently, under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship, the Kolkata Knight Riders won their third Indian Premier League title as well. They also played beautifully throughout the series. And, the mentor emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, and passion.
“A secure dressing room is a happy dressing room, and a happy dressing room ends up in a winning dressing room. The only thing I did in the KKR was following this mantra. With God’s grace it actually worked,” he said. “Sportsmanship is very important as it teaches you discipline and be fair to everyone. There is no junior-senior or international domestic difference. Cricket is a team sport and you cannot win a game single-handedly. Treat your team as a family,” Gautam Gambhir concluded.
