Former World Cup opener Gautam Gambhir was on Tuesday appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team by the BCCI, which expected him to bring “tenacity and leadership” to the role which he has held with “remarkable success”. by Rahul Dravid until recently. The 42-year-old left-hander, who played a key role in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup victory, was the favorite to replace Dravid, whose tenure ended with the country’s T20 World Cup triumph in Barbados last month. Gambhir’s first assignment as India coach will be to tour Sri Lanka for three T20Is and the same number of ODIs from July 27.
“The Board would like to thank former head coach Mr. Rahul Dravid for his brilliant journey with the team. Team India now embarks on a journey under a new coach – Mr. Gautam Gambhir,” the chairman said of BCCI, Roger Binny, in an elaborate statement.
The Board stated that the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjpe and Sulakshana Naik unanimously recommended Gambhir on Tuesday.
“His appointment as head coach marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. His experience, dedication and vision for the game make him the ideal candidate to guide our team forward.
“We are confident that under his leadership, Team India will continue to excel and make the nation proud,” Binny.
The sentiment was echoed by Bard’s secretary, Jay Shah.
“The baton now passes to Mr. Gautam Gambhir who will take on the role of head coach for the upcoming series in Sri Lanka,” he said.
“Gambhir has been a fierce competitor and a brilliant strategist. We believe he will bring the same tenacity and leadership to his role as head coach. His transition into the role of head coach is a natural progression and I believe he will bring out the best in our players.
Shah said he hopes Gambhir inspires and takes the team to new heights.
“His vision for the future of Indian cricket aligns perfectly with our goals and we are excited about the journey ahead,” he added.
As a player, Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. He then proved his coaching credentials by mentoring the KKR team that won the IPL title in 2024.
“It is an absolute honor to serve my tricolor, my people, my country,” Gambhir said in a BCCI statement.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his support team for their exemplary performance with the team. I am honored and excited to take on the role of head coach of Team India.
“I have always been proud to wear the Indian jersey during my playing days and it will be no different when I take on this new role.
Gambhir said he looks forward to working closely with the BCCI, head of cricket VVS Laxman, the support team and, “most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments.”
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