In a significant development for Indian cricket, former India batter Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the announcement on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the national team.
Gambhir, a key player in India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad, has signed a three-year contract, succeeding the legendary Rahul Dravid. His appointment followed a rigorous selection process conducted by the three-member Cricket Advisory Committee, headed by Ashok Malhotra, via Zoom. Despite a detailed presentation by W.V. Raman, the committee ultimately chose Gambhir for the prestigious position.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah took to the social media platform X to welcome the new coach, expressing his excitement and confidence in Gambhir’s capabilities. “It is with immense pleasure that I welcome Mr Gautam Gambhir as the new Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team. Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward,” Shah wrote.
He further added, “His clear vision for Team India, coupled with his vast experience, positions him perfectly to take on this exciting and most sought-after coaching role. The BCCI fully supports him as he embarks on this new journey.”
Gambhir will officially begin his term this month, with his tenure lasting until December 31, 2027, coinciding with the year of the next ODI World Cup. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to bring fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership to the team as they prepare for upcoming challenges on the international stage.