In a significant announcement, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah revealed that Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. This decision marks a new chapter for Indian cricket as Gambhir, a former cricketer with extensive experience, takes on this prestigious role.
Shah announced on his Twitter account, expressing his excitement and confidence in Gambhir’s ability to lead the team. “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,” Shah stated.
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
Shah further emphasized Gambhir’s vision and experience, noting that these qualities make him perfectly suited for the coaching role. “His clear vision for Team India, 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,” Shah added.
Gambhir also shared his thoughts on his new role via his Twitter account. He expressed his honor and commitment to serving his country once again, this time as a coach. “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 tweeted.
Many thanks for your extremely kind words and constant support @JayShah bhai. Elated to be a part of this journey! The entire team together will strive for excellence and newer heights. https://t.co/BgAbTwN59u
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 9, 2024
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… pic.twitter.com/N5YyyrhXAI
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 9, 2024
Gambhir takes over from Rahul Dravid, who stepped down after India’s T20 World Cup victory. This transition comes at a time when Gambhir has also been serving as the team mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his mentorship, KKR secured the IPL 2024 title, adding to his previous success as a captain leading the team to two league titles.
As Gambhir steps into his new role, the BCCI is also preparing to refresh the team’s support staff. The tenures of batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip ended after the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.
Jay Shah mentioned that Gambhir would have the freedom to select his support staff, though it is uncertain whether the team will retain a separate batting coach given Gambhir’s expertise as a former opening batsman.
Gambhir’s first assignment will be a series of three T20Is and ODIs in Sri Lanka. However, he will be without key players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, who have been rested following their successful T20 World Cup campaign. The Indian cricket board wants these senior players to rest before returning for the full season in September, starting with a series against Bangladesh.
Overall, Gambhir’s appointment as head coach marks an exciting new era for Indian cricket. With his experience and vision, he is well-positioned to lead the team to further success and fulfill the aspirations of millions of cricket fans across the country.
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