(PTI Photo)
Gautam Gambhir is poised to embark on a fresh chapter in his professional journey, returning to the Indian cricket team in the role of head coach. After carving out a memorable career as a player, pivotal in India’s two World Cup victories, Gambhir now sets his sights on replicating that success from the team’s coaching quarters.
Known for his assertive on-field demeanor and pragmatic approach, the former India captain secured the top coaching position on the strength of his IPL track record. Gambhir notably mentored two franchises, the Lucknow Super Giants and the Kolkata Knight Riders. His tenure with LSG spanned two seasons, guiding them to playoff berths, before triumphantly reuniting with KKR this year, leading them to their third IPL championship.
Interestingly, Gambhir captained KKR during their initial two IPL triumphs, underscoring his leadership acumen and strategic insight.
Sanjay Bharadwaj, Gambhir’s childhood coach, attests to his protege’s integrity, highlighting examples that underscore his ‘golden heart’ and keen eye for talent.
“He (Gambhir) has played with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the past. Long back, he had once given his ‘Man of the Match’ to Virat. That shows his golden heart. He told me long back that Rohit Sharma will become a great player one day. This was when Rohit was not among the runs and needed some encouragement. His observation about Rohit proved accurate,” Bharadwaj told news agency PTI.
“If Gautam ever feels that something is right for the team, he will be firm on that decision. Gautam plays to win. He knows what to do and focusses on having a set team combination. He doesn’t believe in favouritism; the only thing that is his favourite is cricket,” he added.
According to Bharadwaj, Gambhir’s success as India’s head coach will hinge on his steadfast adherence to the approach that has proven effective for him in the past.
“With his batting, he won two World Cups for India in 2007 and 2011. As a player, you helped India win two World Cups, then propelled KKR to three IPL titles. You have a habit of taking up challenges and conquering them; be honest in your approach and repay the country’s faith in you,” he said.
