The Indian cricket board, known as BCCI, is thinking about asking Gautam Gambhir to be the new head coach of the national team, taking over from Rahul Dravid. This news comes from a report by ESPNCricinfo. Right now, Gambhir is coaching the Kolkata Knight Riders team in the IPL 2024.
BCCI is looking at several people for the job, and Gambhir is one of them. They’ve started talking to him to see if he’s interested. They plan to talk more after the IPL ends. Dravid has said he won’t be applying again for the coaching job, and the deadline for applications is May 27th.
Is Gautam Gambhir India’s Next Cricket Head Coach?
Gautam Gambhir is emerging as a top contender for India’s next cricket head coach, catching the eye of the BCCI. According to ESPNCricinfo, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is considering Gambhir to replace Rahul Dravid. While they initially looked at Stephen Fleming, he hesitated due to the lengthy tenure extending to the 2027 World Cup.
Despite lacking formal coaching experience, Gambhir’s role as a mentor with Kolkata Knight Riders and recent stints with Lucknow Super Giants impressed the BCCI. Lucknow Super Giants made consecutive IPL Playoffs in 2022 and 2023, and this year, under Gambhir’s leadership, Kolkata Knight Riders not only made it to the Playoffs but also secured the top spot in the table.
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Gautam Gambhir’s Return to Cricket Sparks Talks with BCCI
Currently, the BCCI and Gambhir are in early talks, aiming to reach a decision by May 27. More discussions will happen after the IPL ends on May 26. Dravid has chosen not to continue his role, and the BCCI is being careful not to disrupt the National Cricket Academy, where Laxman is currently in charge.
To be considered for the coaching position, candidates need to have played at least 30 Tests or 50 ODIs. Gambhir, who has won the World Cup twice for India and led the Kolkata Knight Riders to a record-breaking unbeaten streak in the IPL, meets these criteria. After his successful stint with KKR, he returned to the Delhi Capitals.
Previously, Gambhir’s involvement in cricket was mainly during the IPL and occasional broadcasting. However, after ending his political career, his return to cricket was welcomed, especially by KKR. It’s believed that senior Indian players like Kohli and Sharma prefer a coach with a strong background. With Fleming and Ponting unavailable, Gambhir stands a good chance.
Gambhir and Dravid’s Impact on Indian Cricket
“Gambhir and Rohit have always been close, despite some rocky times with Kohli. But now, they’ve patched things up. After a rough patch last year, Gambhir and Kohli reconciled. They were even spotted chatting before a big match, suggesting they’re on good terms.
What’s more, Gambhir is known for speaking the truth. He’s not into the whole superstar scene and could be just what India needs for success in ICC tournaments. Players, both young and old, appreciate his demeanor in the dressing room.
Dravid, who took over as head coach in November 2021, will finish his term after the T20 World Cup. In less than three years, he’s led India to victory in the Asia Cup and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Plus, they made it to the final of the World Cup, the semifinals of the T20 World Cup, and the final of the World Test Championship.
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FAQs
Q.1. Is Gautam Gambhir likely to be India’s next cricket head coach?
Ans. Gautam Gambhir is emerging as a strong contender for India’s next cricket head coach, with the BCCI considering him as a potential replacement for Rahul Dravid.
Q.2. Why is BCCI considering Gautam Gambhir for the coaching role?
Ans. Despite lacking formal coaching experience, Gambhir’s successful mentoring roles with teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants have impressed the BCCI.
Q.3. What are the criteria for candidates applying for the coaching position?
Ans. Candidates need to have played at least 30 Tests or 50 ODIs. Gambhir meets these criteria with his extensive experience, having won the World Cup twice for India and leading teams like Kolkata Knight Riders.
Q.4. When will the decision regarding India’s cricket head coach be made?
Ans. The decision regarding India’s cricket head coach is expected to be made after the conclusion of the IPL, with discussions ongoing between Gambhir and the BCCI.
Q.5. How has Gautam Gambhir’s recent coaching experience influenced BCCI’s decision?
Ans. Gambhir’s recent coaching successes, including leading Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL Playoffs and securing the top spot in the table, have highlighted his potential as a coach, influencing the BCCI’s decision-making process.
