Gautam Gambhir and Ajith Agarkar. (Photo Source: Jio Cinema)
Newly appointed Indian men’s cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media for the first time on Monday, July 22. The former top-order batter is in charge of a squad that has achieved remarkable success in recent years but also faces significant transitions.
Gambhir’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Indian cricket. With the retirement of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20 Internationals following their T20 World Cup 2024 victory. The new coach faces the challenge of helping the team through a period of change while maintaining its winning momentum. Gambhir acknowledged the team’s recent achievements.
“I have always said that a happy dressing room is a winning dressing room. That’s my responsibility. For me, I don’t complicate too many things. I am taking over a very, very successful team. T20 world champions, runner-up in the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup. There are issues to fill, but this is a champions’ team,” Gambhir said.
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One of the most pressing topics Gambhir addressed was the appointment of speculation about his relationship with BCCI secretary Jay Shah and other behind-the-scenes matters.
“I have had a fabulous relationship with Jay Shah. All these speculations about different things. We can do a better job clarifying those things. Gautam Gambhir is not important, the betterment of Indian cricket is important. I have really enjoyed working with him, I hope it continues that way,” Gambhir added.