(Source X)
Joginder Sharma, renowned for his pivotal role in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup victory, has made a remarkable statement regarding his ex-teammate Gautam Gambhir just ahead of Gambhir’s debut as the head coach of the Indian Cricket Team for their series against Sri Lanka.
Gambhir, taking over from Rahul Dravid after India’s successful campaign in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 held in the USA and West Indies, is currently accompanying the Men in Blue on their tour of Sri Lanka. His coaching tenure will commence with the first T20I scheduled for Saturday, July 27, at Pallekele.
Joginder Sharma predicts Gautam Gambhir’s surprising departure as India’s head coach.
In a stunning revelation during Shubhankar Mishra’s widely followed podcast, Joginder Sharma made a bold prediction that has sent shockwaves through the Indian cricket community. The former fast bowler confidently asserted that Gautam Gambhir, the formidable new head coach of the Indian cricket team, might see his tenure cut short.
Now serving as a DSP in the Haryana Police, the 40-year-old Sharma explained that Gambhir’s direct and principled approach could potentially lead to friction within the team. Known for his unwavering integrity and avoidance of political maneuvering, Gambhir’s steadfast nature might clash with senior players, including Virat Kohli, with whom he shares a complex history.
Sharma hinted at an imminent rift but tactfully refrained from naming specific individuals, emphasizing that the issue extends beyond just Virat Kohli this time. Despite Gambhir’s exceptional work ethic and genuine commitment, Sharma believes his uncompromising stance on cricketing matters could be a pivotal factor in his departure from the Indian setup.
Sharma is not alone in his sentiments; many share similar views about Gambhir. However, there is optimism abound that his leadership will usher in a fresh and innovative strategic direction for the dynamics of the Men in Blue.
Joginder Sharma said on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast on YouTube: “I believe that Gautam Gambhir won’t be able to stay with Team India for long. Because he has his own decisions. It is possible that Gambhir might have a rift with some player in the middle, and I am not talking about Virat Kohli.
His decisions are often such that others don’t like them. Because he is a straightforward person. He doesn’t go to anyone. He doesn’t cheat anyone. He is not a flatterer. We are the ones who give him credit. I haven’t seen him doing anything that I get credit for. He does his work with a true heart and honesty. That’s why we give him credit.”
Watch the Video-
Gambhir ascended to the role of India’s head coach following a triumphant tenure as a mentor with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during IPL 2024. His leadership saw KKR reclaim the IPL title after a decade, paving the way for his appointment. Prior to this, Gambhir had also served as mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during the IPL seasons of 2022 and 2023.
