Image Source: PTI
Former opening batsman Gautam Gambhir is on the verge of being named the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. Gambhir has been linked with the role for several months, especially as current coach Rahul Dravid’s contract is ending after the ongoing T20 World Cup. According to a report in Dainik Bhaskar, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will soon officially announce Gambhir’s appointment. After discussions with the BCCI, Gambhir accepted the role but made a few demands, which the board has agreed to.
A BCCI source informed Dainik Bhaskar that they have been in talks with Gambhir, who will take over from Dravid following the T20 World Cup. Gambhir insisted on choosing his support staff, a condition that the BCCI accepted. The official announcement of his appointment is expected later this month.
The report also notes that when Ravi Shastri was the head coach, Vikram Rathour replaced Sanjay Bangar as the batting coach and continued in the role under Dravid. Currently, Paras Mhambrey and T Dilip serve as the bowling and fielding coaches, respectively. Gambhir plans to make changes not only to the support staff but also to the team.
Gambhir’s coaching credentials include leading Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in the IPL 2024, a success that has boosted his reputation as a top coaching prospect. At a recent event, Gambhir expressed his enthusiasm for coaching the national team, calling it the highest honor. He highlighted the immense pride and responsibility of representing over 1.4 billion Indians worldwide. Gambhir was part of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning teams.
