Known for his bold and outspoken personality from his playing days, the courageous Gambhir replaces the more reserved Rahul Dravid as coach. Dravid’s career came to an end last month with the T20 World Cup title victory.
After his appointment as head coach, Gambhir posted on X: “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!”
And soon enough, wishes started to pour in for the former Indian opener.
Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh posted, “Congratulations @GautamGambhir for your new innings as Head Coach of Indian Cricket Team. I am sure that your experience, energy, passion, aggression and talent will steer the team on the path of excellence. My best wishes to you. Good luck buddy” to which Gambhir replied, “Thanks a lot brother! @harbhajan_singh”
Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan posted, “A big congratulations to you @GautamGambhir Bhai on becoming the Head Coach of Indian Cricket Team. May your tenure be filled with victories and memorable moments” and Gambhir replied Thanks a lot @SDhawan25!
Nitish Rana, who plays for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL where Gambhir was the mentor till last season, posted, “Congratulations Gauti bhaiya on becoming India’s head coach Love the GG mentality we’ll miss you at KKR”. And Gambhir’s reply was: “Many thanks Nitish! God bless”
Former Indian opener turned commentator and politician Navjot Singh Sidhu posted, “The Indian cricket team will dominate worldwide with @GautamGambhir at the helm as Coach , he will give wings to the aspirations of 1.5 billion Indians – great choice … judicious decision”, to which Gambhir replied. “Thank you so much Sherry Pa!”
Former India captain and spin great Anil Kumble posted, “Congratulations @GautamGambhir. Wishing you the best!” and Gambhir replied “Many many thanks Anil bhai!”
Gambhir’s tenure will officially get underway with the away series against Sri Lanka comprising of 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs.