According to the latest reports in the media, Gautam Gambhir, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and former India opener, is said to be leading candidate for Indian cricket team’s head coach post.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking for a replacement for current coach Rahul Dravid whose tenure ends with the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Gambhir’s recent success as an IPL champion while mentoring KKR has further added to his credentials which could make him a suitable candidate.
Anil Kumble, a former Indian cricketer who was also a legendary spinner expressed that coaching a national side differs greatly from coaching a franchise. Kumble argued that strong leadership would be essential during this transitional phase as several senior players are approaching retirement.
“For Rahul himself and India, he has done an incredible job and I hope he can have one last dance at the WC. What you also have to keep in mind is that some of the senior players are coming towards the backend of their careers. You need players who go through this transition period so India doesn’t lose out on quality in bowling or batting department. So you pick and choose and transition through,” told Kumble ESPNCricinfo.
“You have got to give it time. He can certainly do it. We’ve seen Gautam handle teams. He’s been captain of India, for his franchise, Delhi. He’s got all those credentials. But coaching is slightly different when it comes to Indian team, you’ve got give him some time ,some space where he gets comfortable with such things .Like I said if he does take up this job, it’s more than just looking at what we currently play but also what could happen in future of Indian cricket,” further explained Kumble.
Also Rinku Singh among others, Gambhir knows many senior members of present-day Indian squad as well as upcoming talents. However, Kumble does not think this familiarity will matter during selection.
“Today, you have been a part of the system in some form or the other. Whether you’re a coach or player, you’ve played with them or been associated with them in some form or the other. It doesn’t matter that much. But what you are looking at is the candidature and not whether this particular coach has a background of playing with the players,” noted Kumble.
“Therefore, I feel it is essential to bring on board such a person who can bring something new to Indian team and also one who can handle certain situations on the cricket field due to his stature and credibility. Somebody who is not afraid to take those calls,” added Kumble.
Therefore, when choosing a new head coach; their experience in guiding teams through transition periods while maintaining performance must be taken into account.
Considering his past as both player and mentor, Gambhir looks prepared for any challenges that may come along provided he gets enough time to set himself up in his role.
