(AFP/PTI Photo)
The era of Gautam Gambhir as head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team has kicked off with a flurry of activity ahead of the squad announcements for their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. Since Gambhir took the reins from Rahul Dravid, there has been significant buzz surrounding the team’s preparations.
Following their World Cup victory, India participated in a five-match T20I series, captained by Shubman Gill under the interim coaching of VVS Laxman. This series was seen as an opportunity to test younger players and those on the periphery of the squad, setting the stage for future developments under Gambhir’s leadership.
The Sri Lanka tour, comprising three T20Is and as many ODIs, is poised to provide another platform for emerging talents to stake their claims. It also presents Gambhir with a chance to outline his vision for shaping the team in his own mold.
Here’s a rundown of the key events leading up to the announcement of India’s squads for the Sri Lanka tour.
Gambhir Takes Over as Head Coach
On July 9th, almost a fortnight since India clinched the T20 World Cup title, the BCCI formally announced Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach of the Indian team.
“I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role,” Gambhir said in a statement adding he’s looking forward to working closely with the BCCI, VVS Laxman (Head of NCA) and ‘most importantly’ players.
Seniors to be Rested?
The prominent trio of Indian cricket, comprising Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, initially intended to extend their post-World Cup rest period. Yet, recent developments suggest that one of them might join the upcoming tour, with Rohit Sharma likely to assume leadership during the ODI series.
Gambhir advocated for first-choice stars to play all formats.
In the midst of these developments, an old video has surfaced featuring Gautam Gambhir discussing the commitment required from players deemed capable of representing their country across all three formats. The two-time World Cup winner expressed his belief that players at their peak should prioritize national duty over considerations like ‘injury management’. According to Gambhir, the opportunity to play for one’s country should never be relinquished lightly unless hindered by injury.
Hardik Pandya vs Suryakumar Yadav for T20I Captaincy
The announcement, initially postponed by a few days, has sparked speculation. There’s a debate brewing over the leadership of India in T20Is following Rohit’s retirement. Pandya, who stepped in as captain in Rohit’s absence and served as vice-captain during the T20 World Cup, appears to be the frontrunner. Nevertheless, Suryakumar Yadav is also being seriously considered and could potentially outshine Pandya if Gambhir’s preference prevails. Exciting developments for Indian cricket lie ahead!
Pandya’s message amidst captaincy debate.
Speculation surrounds Pandya’s potential appointment as full-time T20I captain, largely due to concerns over his fitness history. Despite playing a crucial role in India’s World Cup triumph, the all-rounder recently posted a transformational Instagram image depicting his recovery from a significant ankle injury suffered during the 2023 ODI World Cup.
“Was a difficult journey after the freak 2023 WC injury but well worth the effort with the T20 WC win. The results come as long as you put in the effort. Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Let’s all try our best and work on our fitness,” Pandya wrote
Gambhir’s Candidates for Support Staff Rejected?
There are reports suggesting a divergence of opinions between the BCCI and Gambhir regarding the selection of support staff. Gambhir has put forward names like Vinay Kumar and Lakshmipathy Balaji for the role of bowling coach, and Abhishek Nayar for the batting coach position. Additionally, former South African pacer Morne Morkel was reportedly recommended by Gambhir as well. However, the BCCI has reportedly turned down all these suggestions.
