The suspense surrounding Team India’s next head coach ended with the confirmation of former cricketer Gautam Gambhir for the position on July 9. At 42, Gambhir’s cricketing journey from the mid-2000s to the early 2010s remains remarkable. His significant contributions in Tests and pivotal roles in India’s 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs solidify his reputation.
Gambhir’s impact wasn’t limited to international cricket; he also captained Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. Returning as the team’s mentor before IPL 2024, he guided them to a third title this year. His multifaceted success made him an obvious choice to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s head coach, drawing various expert reactions.
Here are the top five expert reactions to Gambhir’s appointment:
#1 Andy Flower
Former Zimbabwean wicketkeeper Andy Flower praised India’s decision to appoint Gambhir, describing him as a shrewd tactician and proud Indian. Having worked with Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during IPL 2022 and 2023, Flower remarked:
“Well, the first thing he’s got to do is just give up his legends cricket at the moment. He’s quite a man Gautam Gambhir, I really enjoyed working with him. He’s got strong opinions, he’s got strong clear views on the game. He’s very decisive, he’s a very proud Indian, he loves Indian cricket and his position, representing Indian cricket. I think it’s a good appointment and I think he’s going to be successful.”
Flower and Gambhir led LSG to the playoffs in both IPL seasons they worked together.
#2 Dale Steyn
Former South African pacer Dale Steyn hailed Gambhir as one of the fiercest competitors from India, recalling their intense battles during the India-South Africa Tests in 2010. Steyn commented:
“I am a big fan of Gautam Gambhir. I love his aggression. He is one of the few Indians that I have played against that kinda came back at you. And I liked that. I think that he has taken in the dressing room with guys like Virat Kohli and some of the other senior players might not play a big part anymore, I am not too sure. I don’t want to say they are completely out.”
He added:
“I like the way he’s fierce on the field but he’s a gentleman off the field. Then also a street-wise and very smart cricketer and got a great cricket brain. So, I think from that point of view he’s gonna be fantastic for them too.”
#3 Graeme Smith
Former South African captain Graeme Smith expressed delight in seeing tactically astute ex-players like Gambhir transition to coaching. Reflecting on Gambhir’s playing days, Smith stated:
“Great to see guys like him going to the coaching side of things. He’s got a really good cricket brain on him. He’ll bring some fire. He loves playing the game aggressively. I think he will bring that added touch in that. The guys will certainly learn a lot from him and he’s got a lot to add. He’s gonna add a lot of value to the Indian side. I am sure he’s gonna do a fantastic job and the players will certainly learn a lot from him.”
Gambhir’s stellar performances against South Africa, particularly averaging 60.50 in Tests in the Rainbow Nation, further highlight his strategic mind.
#4 Abhinav Mukund
Former Indian batter Abhinav Mukund endorsed Gambhir as the perfect choice for head coach, emphasizing the admiration young players have for him. Mukund shared:
“He’s a really good choice for the job. A lot of these younger players look up to him and respect him. He’s very astute on the field; we’ve seen him as a captain but now more as a coach who brought the team to success after 10 years. I’m sure he will be thinking I want to take this legacy forward. Won a World Cup, let’s win a lot more in the next two or three years.”
#5 Jacques Kallis
Former South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis commended Gambhir’s aggressiveness and cricketing intellect, reflecting on their successful stint at KKR. Kallis remarked:
“Great to see Gauti getting into the coaching side of things. He’s got a really good cricket brain on him. He’ll bring some fire. Loves playing the game aggressively. He’ll bring that added touch and the guys will learn a lot from him. He’s got a lot to add… he will add a lot of value to that Indian team.”
Under Gambhir’s captaincy, India maintained a perfect record in the six ODIs he led, achieving notable victories against New Zealand and the West Indies.
As Gautam Gambhir steps into his new role, cricket fans and experts alike are eager to see how his aggressive style and strategic acumen will shape Team India’s future, beginning with the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka starting July 27.
