(AFP/X Source)
Brett Lee, the former Australian fast bowler with over 700 international wickets to his name, has expressed his approval of Gautam Gambhir being named the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. Lee believes that Gambhir’s aggressive playing style and strong determination will greatly benefit the Indian team. According to Lee, India can rest assured that they are in good hands under Gambhir’s leadership.
Gautam Gambhir, who secured significant victories for India in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup finals, was officially appointed as the new head coach on July 9. The announcement came from BCCI secretary Jay Shah on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Gambhir’s tenure as head coach spans three and a half years, commencing with India’s upcoming tour to Sri Lanka later this month. The tour includes three T20Is and as many ODIs against the Sri Lankan team.
During an interview with the Times of India, Lee, who was the leading wicket-taker for the Ricky Ponting-led Australian team in the 2003 ODI World Cup, praised Gambhir and said, “He’s (Gautam Gambhir) done a terrific job every time he’s had an opportunity. The Indian Premier League title with KKR is the best example. He’s always been there, always at the top of his game. He finds a way to unite his players and graft his team together. He builds a solid structure. He has been a terrific player, and his aggression and winning attitude will help India. He has shone internationally as a player. India is in safe hands with Gautam Gambhir as coach. Congratulations to Rahul for finishing on a high.”
Lee has first-hand experience of playing under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership during their time together at the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Their partnership proved fruitful when Gambhir led the team to victory in the IPL 2012 season, defeating the Chennai Super Kings in the final.
Gambhir’s appointment as head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team came after his successful stint as a mentor, where he played a crucial role in guiding the Shreyas Iyer-led team to dominate the 2024 IPL season, culminating in their long-awaited third title after a decade-long wait.
