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India’s pace bowler Mohammed Shami has weighed in on Gautam Gambhir’s coaching methods. Gambhir, renowned for his direct and assertive approach to cricket, has previously led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL championships in 2012 and 2014.
His recent success as KKR’s mentor in IPL 2024, where the team secured their third title, prompted the BCCI to appoint him as India’s head coach following Rahul Dravid’s tenure that concluded after the T20 World Cup 2024.
Mohammed Shami critiqued Gautam Gambhir’s coaching style bluntly.
During a recent podcast hosted by Shubhankar Mishra on YouTube, Mohammed Shami shared his thoughts on Gautam Gambhir’s coaching approach and the expectations surrounding his tenure as the new head coach.
Shami mentioned that Gambhir’s coaching style may not differ significantly from others, but emphasized the value of Gambhir’s beliefs in potentially benefiting the team. He further highlighted the advantage of having an Indian head coach, noting that it enhances mutual understanding between players and the coach.
“I don’t think his method will be anything different. He is a person who believes that if you work hard, you will get the results. If you work on your skills, they will improve as well. And it happens too. When your head coach is from your own country, the understanding gets better too,” Shami said on the podcast.
Gautam Gambhir’s illustrious international career for India includes significant achievements, notably contributing to two ICC tournament victories. In the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, Gambhir played a pivotal role by scoring a resilient 75 off 54 balls in the final against Pakistan, aiding India to clinch the title.
In the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, Gambhir was again instrumental in India’s triumph after 28 years, showcasing his prowess with a commanding 97 off 122 balls in the final against Sri Lanka. His performances throughout these tournaments underscored his capability to deliver under pressure on the global stage.
Additionally, Gambhir has attained the top spot in the ICC Test rankings as a distinguished left-handed batsman, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s most accomplished cricketers of his era.
Gautam Gambhir’s debut as India’s head coach
Rahul Dravid’s tenure culminated with a triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 victory for India. However, with the retirements of senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20Is, Gautam Gambhir faces the challenging task of overseeing India’s seamless transition in the format.
Gambhir’s initial test will be during India’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, featuring three T20Is at Pallekele and three ODIs in Colombo.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami’s last international appearance was in the 2023 ODI World Cup final. Since then, he has been sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during the tournament. Following Achilles tendon surgery in London, Shami is expected to stage his international comeback during the home series against Bangladesh.
