Newly appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir thanked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) CEO Venky Mysore and his former Team India teammates Irfan Pathan, RP Singh, Munaf Patel, and Anil Kumble amongst others after being appointed to the role. The former India opener replaced Rahul Dravid in the position after the T20 World Cup 2024 triumph.
Gambhir was unanimously selected for the role by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) comprising Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjpe, and Sulakshana Naik on Tuesday. He will take up his first assignment as Team India’s head coach during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka, starting on July 27.
“The BCCI welcomes Gautam Gambhir in his role with Team India. 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,” the BCCI said in a statement.
Check Gautam Gambhir’s reactions here:
Many thanks brother! @IrfanPathan https://t.co/b2ksPWvwiW
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 10, 2024
Thanks a lot brother for your wishes! https://t.co/hv7wRLqYyS
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 10, 2024
Many thanks for your constant support and encouragement Venky Bhai @VenkyMysore! https://t.co/SSl8yb1Nf0
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 10, 2024
Thanks a lot @munafpa99881129! https://t.co/u3LP2Q7JUI
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 10, 2024
Many many thanks Anil bhai! https://t.co/E6PK5BVCik
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 10, 2024
His remarkable contributions to the Indian team that include crucial performances in the 2007 ICC World T20 and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, have cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greats. Gambhir also led his IPL franchise, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to two title victories in 2012 and 2014. In his role as mentor with KKR in 2024, Gambhir helped the team secure its third IPL title.
In his new role as Head Coach of Team India, Gambhir will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Indian cricket team, the BCCI said in a statement. His focus will be on developing a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, while also nurturing young talent and preparing the team for future challenges on the global stage.
