Emphasis on Team Over Self
Gautam Gambhir recently showcased his selfless nature, emphasizing that the Indian team is what truly matters, not the head coach himself.
Stepping Into Big Shoes
Taking the helm of an incredibly successful team fresh off their T20 World Cup 2024 victory, Gambhir acknowledges the challenges ahead. Despite India’s recent achievements as T20 World champions and runners-up in both the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship, Gambhir has no reservations about stepping into his new role with the national team.
Clear Coaching Philosophy
Addressing the media before the Indian team’s departure to Sri Lanka, Gambhir made his coaching philosophy clear: “The betterment of Indian cricket is important, Gautam Gambhir is not important.”
Focus on Team Success
“I have always believed that a happy dressing room is a winning dressing room, and that’s my responsibility. I don’t complicate things. I’m taking over a very successful team. T20 World champions, runner-up in the World Test Championship and the 50-over World Cup. There are shoes to fill, but this is a champions’ team,” Gambhir said.
Relationship with Jay Shah
Reflecting on his relationship with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, Gambhir dispelled rumors, stating, “Gautam Gambhir is not important, the betterment of Indian cricket is important. I’ve enjoyed working with Jay Shah and hope it continues.”
Filling Big Shoes
Gambhir admitted he has big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps of former coaches like Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri.
Ensuring a Positive Team Environment
“The key is that the team knows I have their back. My goal is to ensure a happy and secure dressing room. We’ve been runners-up in the WTC and the 50-over World Cup. I have big shoes to fill, and I’m looking forward to it,” Gambhir said.
Support from Experienced Staff
Joining Gambhir in the coaching staff are his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) colleague Abhishek Nayar as assistant coach and Ryan Ten Doeschate.
“I’ve worked closely with Abhishek and Ryan during the last two months with KKR. Both are absolute professionals, and I hope they have a successful stint with the Indian team,” Gambhir noted.
Leading a Star-Studded Team
With stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli set to join the team for the ODIs, Gambhir will be leading a dressing room full of talent. He spoke of his good relationship with Kohli.
“I share a great relationship with Virat Kohli. We exchange messages often. He’s a world-class batter, and we both are committed to making 140 crore people proud,” he said.
Future Plans
“Both Virat and Rohit have a lot of cricket left in them. They are world-class players, and any team would be lucky to have them. We have the Champions Trophy, the Australia series, and if all goes well, the 2027 World Cup,” he added.
Gambhir’s Previous Success
Gambhir, a former left-handed opener for India, recently served as the team mentor for KKR, guiding them to their third IPL trophy this season.
End of Dravid’s Tenure
Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach ended after India’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory over South Africa, where India clinched the trophy by seven runs, breaking a 17-year drought.
