Mumbai: Gautam Gambhir was ready for his 10 am media interaction as India’s new head coach, looking sharp in India’s travel jersey. At 42, he could easily be mistaken for one of the senior players, but he’s taken on one of cricket’s most demanding roles instead of opting for lucrative contracts or family breaks.
A gritty opener, Gambhir spent much of his career overshadowed by the Fab Five (Sehwag, Dravid, Tendulkar, Ganguly, and Laxman). This background might help him relate to players who aren’t recognized as flamboyant stroke-makers or consistent wicket-takers.
“International cricket can be tough and insecure since only 15 players are picked. It’s the support staff’s job to keep them happy,” Gambhir said. “It’s important to give players freedom and build relationships based on trust, not just as head coach and player.”
Trust will be crucial in his relationship with Rohit Sharma (37) and Virat Kohli (35). Both have been vital in the last two World Cups and continue to bring class to Test cricket, but their future remains a question.
“I’m confident they have a lot of cricket left in them,” Gambhir said. “With the 2025 Champions Trophy and a big tour of Australia in November, they should be motivated. If they maintain their fitness, they could even make it to the 2027 ODI World Cup. But ultimately, it’s their personal decision and contribution to the team that matters.”
Gambhir’s partnership with Kohli is highly anticipated. The two have a history of on-field clashes and past tensions over captaincy decisions. However, Gambhir emphasized professionalism and unity.
“Our relationship isn’t public. It’s between two mature individuals,” he said. “On the field, everyone fights for their team. But now we represent India and 140 crore Indians. We’ll be on the same page to make India proud.”
The two have exchanged messages since Gambhir took on his new role. “Virat is a thorough professional and world-class athlete. I respect him as a player, and that respect will continue. Hopefully, we’ll work well together.”
Addressing the future of format specialists and all-format players, Gambhir, alongside chief selector Ajit Agarkar, suggested that transitions are inevitable.
“For example, with Virat, Rohit, and Ravindra not in T20Is, the team will transition as these world-class players retire from the format. In 50-overs and Test cricket, consistency is key.”
Gambhir succeeds Rahul Dravid, under whom the team enjoyed significant success, including reaching the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup finals and winning the T20 World Cup.
While both Dravid and Gambhir despise losing, their coaching styles might differ. Gambhir emphasized winning as his primary focus.
“My learning has been simple – it’s all about winning,” he said. “We’re in a profession with only one winner. We play fair, hard, and aim to return to a winning and happy dressing room. A happy dressing room is a winning dressing room.”
The upcoming Sri Lanka tour, beginning July 27, will give the new team management an opportunity to start strong with both players and results.
