In a significant move for Indian cricket, Gautam Gambhir, the former opener and ex-MP, has taken the reins as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team. This transition comes after Rahul Dravid’s successful tenure, which culminated with India’s triumph at the 2024 T20 World Cup. Gambhir’s appointment marks a new chapter for the team, and his first press conference was a blend of insight, humor, and a nod to the team’s illustrious past.

Gambhir, known for his strategic acumen and persistent efforts to nurture talent, expressed confidence in the team’s future. “These are big shoes to fill,” Gambhir stated during the press conference, acknowledging the legacy left by his predecessors. However, he was quick to add, “I am confident that we have the talent and the mindset to continue our success.”

Gautam Gambhir Addresses the Media

One of the highlights of the press conference was Gambhir’s relationship with Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket captain. When asked about his relationship with Kohli, Gambhir responded with a touch of humor, “My relationship with Virat Kohli is between the two of us and not for TRPs.” This light-hearted comment not only diffused any potential tension but also highlighted Gambhir’s ability to handle sensitive topics with ease.

Gambhir also touched upon the importance of a secure dressing room, a factor that he believes is crucial for the team’s success. “A secure dressing room is like a fortress. It’s where the team comes together, plans, strategizes, and builds camaraderie,” he noted.

A Test of Leadership

As India prepares for their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, Gambhir’s leadership will be put to the test. The tour, which includes three ODIs and three T20Is, will be his first assignment as head coach. However, with his wealth of experience and his ability to connect with the players, Gambhir seems more than ready to take on this challenge.

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Gambhir’s appointment as head coach marks a new era for Indian cricket. With his strategic acumen, his ability to nurture talent, and his focus on a secure dressing room, he seems poised to lead the team to new heights. As the team embarks on their journey under Gambhir’s leadership, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely, eager to see how this new chapter unfolds.

Newly added franchise Lucknow Super Giants bid the highest for an uncapped player in the history of IPL.

Avesh Khan with a base price of ₹20 lakh was sold for a whopping ₹10Cr making him the richest uncapped player to date.

Team mentor Gautham Gambhir sheds his views on the decision that is highly being criticized or being termed as “heavily overpriced”.

Gambhir said Avesh is a unique player and said that Lucknow can build the franchise around him.

“We did go for Prasidh Krishna till INR 9.5 crore. He was always in the scheme of things. But we couldn’t have got any further. When we couldn’t get Prasidh, Avesh was the last in that rank who could bowl quick, so we had to go harder for him,” Gambhir said on Xtra Time.

“I know some people say that we overpaid certain players but in Avesh’s case, he’s young and can bowl quick. He’s someone you can build the Indian bowling with, and build the bowling department for the future. While people only talk about the present, we thought about the future as well. How many people who are that young can bowl 145 and can also bowl at different stages of the game?”

Gambhir also said had he been the captain he would have been happy with the Arsenal at his disposal.

“Imagine if Holder and Wood bowl alongside him and you put in Stoinis, it would give you a good balance. If I was captain, it would’ve made me very happy,” said Gambhir.

“Avesh is someone we thought we could build the franchise with, alongside Ravi Bishnoi.”

The 2022 season will have 10 teams battling it out for the prized possession, playing 2 games each. The tournament is rumored to commence from 30th March. Official dates are yet to be confirmed.