Gautam Gambhir set to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach, says report

PTC Web Desk: The search for Rahul Dravid’s successor as Team India head coach is likely nearing its conclusion, with ace cricketer Gautam Gambhir reportedly poised to take on the role.

Gautam Gambhir’s name has gained traction in the Indian cricket community, especially following his successful stint as a mentor for the IPL 2024 franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). His rising profile has put him ahead of other notable contenders, including several prominent Australian names and IPL coaches such as Stephen Fleming and Andy Flower.

Gautam Gambhir’s reputation as a mentor was significantly bolstered when KKR topped the league stage of IPL 2024 and subsequently clinched the title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final. Following this victory, Gambhir engaged in a lengthy conversation with BCCI secretary Jay Shah, further fueling speculations about his future role.

According to a report in India Today, Gautam Gambhir is now set to replace Dravid as Team India head coach. Despite recently assuming the role of mentor for KKR, he previously worked with the Lucknow Super Giants as part of their coaching staff since 2022.

Sources in the cricket fraternity say while Gautam Gambhir lacks direct experience as the head coach of a national team or IPL franchise, his instrumental role in KKR’s triumph this year has reportedly convinced the BCCI to consider him seriously as Dravid’s successor.

The BCCI had invited applications for Team India head coach by May 27 and received over 3,000 submissions, including some humorous entries from names such as ‘Sachin Tendulkar’, ‘Narendra Modi’, and ‘Amit Shah’. The Cricket Advisory Committee is expected to begin interviewing shortlisted candidates soon.