(Credit BCCI)
After maintaining silence for more than two weeks, Gautam Gambhir has at last spoken out about the possibility of coaching the Indian cricket team. During an event in Abu Dhabi, the ex-Indian cricketer responded to a student’s inquiry regarding coaching the Indian cricket team, expressing his willingness and honor in taking on the role.
“I have not answered this question, although a lot of people have asked me. But I have to answer you now. I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team. You are representing 140 crore Indians and those across the globe as well,” says the 42-year-old.
CricketNext attempted to contact the BCCI with numerous questions regarding the interview process, if one was scheduled, for the coaching position, but received no response. It appears that there is a shortage of high-caliber candidates available for selection, potentially leading to a departure from the standard procedure this time around.
“We might have a situation where there are no interviews and presentations. There just aren’t many quality candidates to choose from. Most potential overseas candidates have already ruled themselves out and many more are happy to be in control of their year. The job of coaching Team India would need at least 9 months on the road,” says a source close to developments.
At present, Gambhir serves as the mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), his former IPL team, a role he assumed before the 2024 edition, contributing significantly to their title victory this season. With Gambhir’s potential departure, CricketNext inquired of CEO Venky Mysore whether there have been any discussions between Gambhir and the KKR management. Updates on this matter will be provided once Mysore responds.
Following his success as a mentor with KKR, Gambhir has been enjoying a vacation with his family, including his wife and two daughters. After the IPL final in Chennai last week, the former Indian cricketer briefly met with BCCI secretary Jay Shah, although they didn’t engage in an extended conversation.
Shah departed the venue immediately after the presentation ceremony, while Gambhir remained with the team and owners, departing in the team bus around 2 am. The celebrations continued at the team hotel, resulting in a late night for the Knights.
The new head coach of India will be appointed for a term of 3.5 years, commencing on July 1 and concluding on December 31, 2027. Currently, Rahul Dravid is with the Indian team for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Although his contract expired after the 2023 World Cup, the Indian cricket board persuaded him to stay until the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup.
