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World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir is reportedly leading the race to become India’s next head coach, succeeding Rahul Dravid after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2024. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opened applications, a month ago in May, for the coveted position, and Gambhir’s name has surfaced prominently in discussions.
Gautam Gambhir’s coaching credentials and leadership
Despite lacking experience as an international coach, Gambhir made significant contributions as a mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), guiding them to victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Furthermore, his tenure as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 and 2023, where he steered the team to playoffs was also commendable. His leadership prowess is underscored by captaining KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, cementing his reputation as a seasoned strategist in cricketing circles. His success in the IPL has positioned him as a viable candidate to take charge of the Indian team.
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Anil Kumble’s insights on India’s head coach job
Former Indian captain and coach Anil Kumble, Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, has voiced his support for Gambhir, highlighting the potential impact of his appointment on the Indian squad. Kumble emphasized the necessity for a strong leader in the Indian dressing room, a role he believes Gambhir is equipped to fulfill admirably. While acknowledging Gambhir’s achievements with KKR, Kumble stressed the importance of the BCCI granting him sufficient time to transition into the international coaching domain.
“You need somebody with a strong demeanour, and you want continuity. Rahul (Dravid) has done a fantastic job, and hopefully, for him and India’s sake, he has a swansong with the World Cup. What you also have to keep in mind is that some of the senior players are coming towards the backend of their careers. You need players who go through the transition period and ensure India doesn’t miss out the quality in the bowling and batting department. You pick and choose and transition through,” Kumble said.
“You have to give it time. He certainly is capable. We have seen Gautam handle teams. He has been a captain for India, for his franchise, for Delhi. He has all the credentials to be that. But Indian team’s coaching is slightly different, you have to give him time to settle in. Like I mentioned, in case he takes up the job, he will have the task of looking at not just the current lot, but also the future of Indian cricket,” Kumble concluded.
