The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Gautam Gambhir, the World Cup-winning opening batter, as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. This announcement was highly anticipated, with Gambhir being the frontrunner to succeed ex-coach Rahul Dravid. Dravid’s tenure ended after India’s T20 World Cup victory last month. While Gambhir was the top choice, the BCCI also interviewed former Indian batter WV Raman before finalizing the decision.
Following the announcement of Gambhir as the head coach, WV Raman took to social media to offer his congratulations. “Congrats @GautamGambhir and all the very best to you,” Raman wrote.
Congrats @GautamGambhir and all the very best to you .
— WV Raman (@wvraman) July 9, 2024
The BCCI, in a release, stated: “The Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Mr Ashok Malhotra, Mr Jatin Paranjpe, and Ms Sulakshana Naik unanimously recommended Mr Gautam Gambhir as the Head Coach of Team India (Senior Men). Gambhir will take charge from the upcoming away series against Sri Lanka, featuring 3 ODIs & 3 T20Is starting on July 27, 2024.
“The BCCI had opened applications for this position on May 13th to find Rahul Dravid’s successor, following the conclusion of his term after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, 2024.
“Gautam Gambhir’s appointment is welcomed by the BCCI. The former Indian opener brings vast experience and a profound understanding of the game. His exceptional batting skills and strategic acumen have made him a key figure in Indian cricket.
“Gambhir’s significant contributions to the Indian team, including vital performances in the 2007 ICC World T20 and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, have solidified his status as a cricketing great. He also led his IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. As a mentor with KKR in 2024, Gambhir assisted in securing the team’s third IPL title.
“In his new role as Head Coach of Team India, Gambhir will oversee the team’s development and performance. His focus will be on fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, nurturing young talent, and preparing the team for future global challenges.”
@Cricbun
