(Source X)
Gautam Gambhir, recently appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team effective from the upcoming Sri Lanka series starting July 27, held his first press conference today in Mumbai.
During the press conference, the former Indian cricketer announced the appointment of Abhishek Nayar, a former Indian all-rounder, and Ryan ten Doeschate, a Dutch batter, as assistant coaches. Gambhir had previously collaborated with Nayar and Ten Doeschate while mentoring the Kolkata Knight Riders during IPL 2024.
“Really happy with the BCCI. They have agreed with most of the things I have asked for. The crux of the support staff will remain what it is right now, but we will finalise it once the Sri Lanka tour is over. Yes, Abhishek (Nayar) is the assistant coach, and Ryan ten Doeschate is the assistant coach. I personally feel there can be assistant coaches who can probably involve themselves more in all three departments rather than just focusing on one, and that is the reason why now we have two assistant coaches as well. And that is the way we go forward, and yes, you will get to know the exact support staff once the Sri Lanka tour is over,” Gambhir said.
Additionally, the 42-year-old coach confirmed that T. Dilip and former Indian spinner Sairaj Bahutule will accompany the Indian team to Sri Lanka as part of the support staff.
“Abhishek Nayar is there, Sairaj Bahutule is there, Dilip is there, and Ryan ten Doeschate is going to join in Colombo,” Gambhir said when asked about coaching staff for the Sri Lanka tour.
Dilip, who previously served as India’s fielding coach during Rahul Dravid’s tenure, is set to resume his role. Meanwhile, Bahutule is expected to join as India’s bowling coach specifically for the Sri Lanka series.
Recent reports from CricketNext suggested that Morne Morkel, the former South African pacer, is likely to take over as India’s new bowling coach following the conclusion of the India-Sri Lanka series.
In his first official press interaction since assuming the helm of the Indian team, Gambhir emphasized his coaching philosophy, highlighting his belief in empowering players and ensuring unwavering support for them.
