Gautam Gambhir Named Head Coach of Indian Cricket Team

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team. On July 1, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Team India’s new head coach will join the squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

The Men in Blue are set to tour Sri Lanka for a three-match T20I series and three ODIs, beginning on July 27.

Head coach Rahul Dravid’s tenure concluded after the final match of the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India defeated South Africa by seven runs to claim the prestigious trophy, ending a 17-year drought for an ICC title.

Announcing the new development, Jay Shah took to X and wrote, ‘It is with immense pleasure that I welcome Mr. Gautam Gambhir 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 career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward.’

‘His clear vision for #TeamIndia, coupled with his vast experience, positions him perfectly to take on this exciting and most sought-after coaching role. The @BCCI fully supports him as he embarks on this new journey,’ he added.

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

India is my identity, says Gambhir

After being appointed as the head coach, Gambhir said he was honoured to be back.

Gambhir took to X and wrote, “India is my identity and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honoured to be back, albeit wearing a different hat. But my goal is the same as it has always been, to make every Indian proud. The men in blue shoulder the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!”

Gambhir’s First Assignment as Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir’s first assignment as head coach of the Indian cricket team will be the white-ball series against Sri Lanka, starting on July 27.

The BCCI stated, “We welcome Gautam Gambhir in his role with Team India. The former Indian opener brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game. Known for his exceptional batting prowess and strategic acumen, Gambhir has been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket.”

Search for Dravid’s Successor

The BCCI invited applications for India’s head coach role on May 13, following the expiration of Rahul Dravid’s tenure after the T20 World Cup 2024 win.

Although the deadline for applications ended on May 27 and the BCCI was expected to announce Gambhir’s appointment soon after, discussions over Gambhir’s remuneration and new demands have reportedly delayed the official announcement.