The cricketing world is abuzz with rumors and anticipation as Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer, emerges as a strong contender for the position of India’s next men’s head coach. While the official announcement is yet to be made, an IPL team owner has reportedly confirmed Gambhir’s appointment. According to reports a team owner very close to the BCCI hierarchy confirmed the news.
As Rahul Dravid’s term as head coach concludes after the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively considering potential candidates. Gambhir, known for his aggressive batting style and leadership qualities, is at the top of their wishlist. His experience as a player and mentor in the Indian Premier League (IPL) adds weight to his credentials.
🚨 REPORTS 🚨
An IPL team owner has confirmed Gautam Gambhir's appointment as India's next men's head coach.
The announcement is expected to come soon. #GautamGambhir #India #KolkataKnightRiders pic.twitter.com/CzAy6yMwlS
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) May 28, 2024
Gautam Gambhir’s Coaching Journey
Although Gautam Gambhir lacks international coaching experience, he has been involved with two IPL franchises as part of their coaching staff. In IPL 2022 and 2023, he served as the mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants, guiding them to playoff berths. His unexpected move to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as team mentor for IPL 2024 surprised many, but it reflects his commitment to nurturing talent.
Shah Rukh Khan, the principal owner of KKR, played a pivotal role in convincing Gambhir to join the franchise. Under Gambhir’s captaincy, KKR achieved remarkable success, winning two IPL titles (2012 and 2014) and reaching the final of the Champions League T20 in 2014. Now under Gambhir’s mentorship, KKR won the IPL title in 2024 after a 10-year hiatus. His leadership acumen and understanding of the game make him an attractive choice for the national coaching role.
Rahul Dravid, who initially agreed to an extension until the end of the 2024 T20 World Cup, has communicated his decision not to seek another tenure. VVS Laxman, another potential candidate, had previously made himself unavailable due to personal reasons.
If appointed, Gautam Gambhir will take charge across all formats, His task will be to build on the foundation laid by Dravid and guide the team to further glory. Only time will tell which way the tide will turn and will Gambhir get a chance to prove himself as the coach of the Indian national team.
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