In a notable development for Indian cricket, ex-Indian batter Gautam Gambhir is likely to become India’s head coach after the T20 World Cup 2024 conclusion. As per reliable reports, discussions are being carried out between Gambhir and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as the former emerges as the potential candidate for the role.
Dravid to continue as India’s head coach till World Cup
Notably, the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 will mark the end of Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach. He is not expected to reapply for the position. Meanwhile, Gambhir has reportedly applied for the head coach position. It should be noted that the deadline for applications was Monday, 27th May.
Remember that there is no official confirmation of Gambhir’s appointment as India’s head coach yet. But the negotiations between the BCCI and him are focusing on a myriad of aspects of the role.
Both sides have stressed on the importance of national duty in their discussions, using the phrase “desh ke liye karna hai” (we must do it for the country) as a central theme. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has been in talks with Gambhir, revolving around this idea of national service.
“The buzzword inside the coach selection circle is ‘desh ke liye karna hai’. Both the BCCI and Gambhir share the belief that ‘we must do it for the country.’ And the conversation between Jay Shah and Gambhir is understood to be centred around this idea,” the report said.
Moreover, a prominent IPL franchise owner (not named), who shares a close relationship with the BCCI officials, has also guaranteed Gambhir’s appointment. Additionally, a well-known commentator connected to the BCCI has hinted that efforts are underway to bring Gambhir on board. An official announcement regarding Gambhir’s appointment is anticipated soon.
The former player was seen in conversation with Jay Shah at the IPL final which further fueled speculation about his potential new role. He has also confessed to close associates that he is considering the head coach position after the T20 World Cup 2024. It means Dravid will take charge of the side till the multinational event. Even Shah Rukh Khan, the co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is knowledgeable about Gambhir’s potential appointment.
The 42-year-old has a rich history with KKR. He not only served as a mentor during the 2024 IPL season, under which KKR clinched the title but also led the Purple Force to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, adding to his outstanding credentials and leadership abilities.
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