In respect of India’s new head coach, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will not have their most influential personality who claimed for them three Indian Premier League titles; therefore, it seems that KKR management has already started scouting for Gambhir’s replacement.
According to The Telegraph, Jacques Kallis is one of the strong contenders to take over from Gambhir as KKR team mentor and former coach to the side. While Pandit will remain head coach for certain, Kallis might perform his role as Gambhir did.
“The franchise is also on the lookout for a replacement for Gambhir, who was key to its third IPL crown this year. The name of legendary South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis, who had coached KKR in 2019, is also doing the rounds,” said the report.
Interestingly enough, upon his tenure with Kolkata teams which won 2012 and 2014 IPL seasons under captaincy of Gambhir. After retiring in 2014, he joined KKR as a batting consultant in 2015 before becoming its head coach following Trevor Baylis’ departure; he remained with them till 2019 after which he moved to South Africa where he became assistant batting persona.
KKR may not be limited in fresh appointments just by losing gambler according to sources. And among other names being floated around as possible assistants coaches less than Nayar: Abhishek – Indians could also try out their luck with KKRs batting consultants Abhishek Nayar.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will be cricketing home ground of Gautam Gambhirs reign as Indias national coach. He succeeded Rahul Dravid at that position.
Last month saw Rahul Dravid quit coaching duties with India after successful T20 World Cup campaign.
At only age 42 years old this double world cup winner becomes youngest ever Indian team coach.