(Image source from: x.com/JayShah)
Gautam Gambhir has been selected as the new head coach for India's senior men's cricket team, as announced by BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Tuesday (July 9). The 42-year-old's first assignment will be the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, which includes 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is, starting on July 27. Gambhir took over from Dravid, who held the position from November 2021 to June 2024 and stepped down after India's triumph at the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. Under Dravid's leadership, the team reached the final of the ICC World Test Championship and the 50-over World Cup in 2023, and won the T20 World Cup in 2024. In his new role, Gambhir will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Indian cricket team. He is tasked with fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, as well as nurturing young talent and preparing the team for future global challenges. Although Gambhir lacks previous coaching experience, he has served as a mentor for multiple IPL teams, including Kolkata Knight Riders, who emerged victorious in the championship this year.
Gautam Gambhir, a celebrated figure in Indian cricket, has been entrusted with the esteemed position of Head Coach for the Indian Cricket Team. His illustrious career, spanning over 12 years, saw him play a pivotal role in India's World Cup triumphs in 2007 and 2011. With 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is under his belt, Gambhir's wealth of experience and intimate knowledge of the evolving landscape of modern cricket make him the ideal candidate to guide the Indian team forward. The BCCI President, in a heartfelt statement, expressed confidence in Gambhir's ability to steer the team towards new heights. Gambhir, in turn, has expressed his deep gratitude and unwavering commitment to serving his country and making every Indian proud. As he embarks on this exciting new journey, the BCCI has pledged its full support, recognizing Gambhir's clear vision and exceptional credentials to take on this coveted coaching role. Celebrating Dravid's impactful legacy, Shah commended, "I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mr Rahul Dravid for his highly successful tenure as Head Coach. Under his leadership, the Indian team established itself as a formidable force across all formats, even clinching the prestigious ICC Men's T20 World Cup title!"
It is with immense pleasure that I welcome Mr @GautamGambhir as the new Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team. Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his… pic.twitter.com/bvXyP47kqJ
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 9, 2024
Rahul Dravid's exceptional strategic thinking, unwavering efforts to nurture talent, and exemplary leadership have fostered a culture of excellence within the team. His legacy will be etched in the annals of history. Today, the Indian dressing room stands united, facing challenges together and celebrating each other's triumphs. BCCI President Roger Binny commended Dravid's successful tenure and expressed confidence in Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the new Head Coach. "The Board is grateful to former Head Coach, Mr. Rahul Dravid, for his remarkable contribution to the team's success. As we embark on a new journey, Mr. Gautam Gambhir's experience, dedication, and vision for the sport make him the ideal choice to lead our team forward. We are confident that under his guidance, Team India will continue to excel and bring pride to the nation," Binny stated.
