Gautam Gambhir appointed as new head coach of Indian cricket team, says ‘honoured to be back’

Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men's cricket team. Earlier, on July 1, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Team India's new head coach would join the side for the upcoming Sri Lanka series.

The Men in Blue are due to tour Sri Lanka for a three-match T20I series and three ODIs, which will kick off on July 27.

Head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure came to an end after the final match of the T20 World Cup 2024, in which India defeated South Africa by seven runs to win the prestigious trophy after 17 years and end the drought for an ICC trophy.

Announcing the development, Shah took to X and wrote, “It is with immense pleasure that I welcome Mr @GautamGambhir as the new Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team. Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward.”

“His clear vision for #TeamIndia, coupled with his vast experience, positions him perfectly to take on this exciting and most sought-after coaching role. The @BCCI fully supports him as he embarks on this new journey,” he added.

India is my identity, says Gambhir

After being appointed as the head coach, Gambhir said he was honoured to be back.

“India is my identity and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honoured to be back, albeit wearing a different hat. But my goal is the same as it has always been, to make every Indian proud. The men in blue shoulder the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!” Gambhir said in a post on X.

Gambhir's first assignment as head coach

As the head coach of the Indian cricket team, Gambhir's first assignment would be the white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The tour will begin on July 27.

The BCCI also welcomed Gautam Gambhir as Team India's new head coach. "The former Indian opener brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game. Known for his exceptional batting prowess and strategic acumen, Gambhir has been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket,” it said.

Search for Dravid's successor

The BCCI invited applications for India's head coach role on May 13, as Rahul Dravid had not expressed interest in seeking an extension.

Since the deadline to apply for the head coach post ended on May 27, the BCCI was expected to declare Gambhir's name as head coach soon after the deadline. However, discussions over Gambhir's remuneration and his new demands have reportedly delayed the announcement.