Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir spoke about potentially taking on the role of head coach for the men's senior team.
Gambhir had previously opted to remain silent on being considered the leading candidate for the top position in Team India.
However, following his successful return to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Gambhir played a pivotal role in guiding the franchise to their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title in the 2024 season.
Since no notable foreign head coach is throwing his hat for the top job, Gambhir's name has gained momentum to replace Dravid at Team India.
The deadline for applying for the position of head coach of the Indian men's cricket team concluded on Monday (27th May).
During an event in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, Gambhir expressed his interest in taking over from Dravid, admitting his eagerness to join the Indian camp. “I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team. You are representing 140 crore Indians and those across the globe as well,” Gambhir told PTI.
Dravid's tenure is drawing to a close in June. The Indian head coach received a brief extension after his two-year contract expired last year. The T20 World Cup marks Dravid's final role as the head coach of the Men In Blue.
Rohit's men will commence their World Cup journey against Ireland on June 5. India will then prepare for the highly anticipated showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan in New York on June 9.
Speaking to students at Medeor Hospital in Abu Dhabi, Gambhir was questioned about assuming the coaching role and bringing an end to India's ICC trophy dry spell at the World Cup.
“I have not answered this question, although lot of people have asked me. But I have to answer you now. It is 140 crore Indians who will help India win the World Cup. If everyone starts praying for us and we start playing and representing them, India will win the World Cup. The most important thing is to be fearless," Gambhir added.
- Gautam Gambhir
- Hardik Pandya
