Gary Kirsten or Greg Chappell 2.0 loading? Fans react after Gambhir's appointment as new coach of Indian team
Gautam Gambhir is appointed as India’s new head coach, succeeding Rahul Dravid. Fans react with mixed emotions, recalling past coaching successes and controversies.
| July 10, 2024 at 12:14 PM
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Indian cricket fans have taken to social media to express their reactions to the appointment of former cricketer Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach of the India men’s senior team. The announcement was made by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah on July 9, just days after India clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup trophy. Gambhir, who recently led the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to an IPL 2024 title, will replace Rahul Dravid at the helm of the national side.
The chatter around Gambhir’s appointment as head coach grew louder during the second half of the IPL 2024 season. Although there was no formal approach initially, discussions between the BCCI and Gambhir progressed informally. Despite having no prior coaching experience at the highest level, Gambhir’s successful stint as a mentor in the IPL convinced the BCCI that he is the right man to lead the team forward. Gambhir will officially take on his new role starting with the Sri Lanka series, which includes 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs, from July 27 to August 7. Until then, the Indian team, currently playing a 5-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, will remain under the mentorship of VVS Laxman.
Reflecting on coaching success and controversies
The appointment of Gambhir brings back memories of past coaching tenures, both successful and controversial. Gary Kirsten’s period as the Indian head coach from 2008 to 2011 is fondly remembered as a golden era. Under Kirsten’s guidance, India won the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and achieved the number one Test ranking. Kirsten’s calm demeanor and strategic acumen were instrumental in these successes.
In contrast, Greg Chappell’s tenure from 2005 to 2007 is often cited as one of the most controversial periods in Indian cricket. Chappell’s aggressive coaching style and frequent conflicts with senior players, including Sourav Ganguly, led to significant unrest within the team. The period was marked by mixed performances on the field and eventually led to Chappell’s exit.
Fan’s reactions
Fans are divided over Gambhir’s appointment. While many praise the decision, terming it as the dawn of a new era for Indian cricket, others express concern over potential controversies. Some fans fear a repeat of the tumultuous Chappell era, given Gambhir’s similar combative mindset and outspoken nature. Despite these concerns, there is cautious optimism that Gambhir’s passion and tactical knowledge will bring success to the team.
As Gambhir prepares to take on his new role, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see if he can emulate the success of coaches like Kirsten or if his tenure will be marked by challenges similar to those faced during Chappell’s time. Only time will tell how this new chapter in Indian cricket unfolds.
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BCCIGautam gambhirNew Head CoachTeam India