Key takeaways from Gambhir's first Press conference as India's head coach: From backing Rohit and Virat to filling the shoes of Rahul Dravid

Newly appointed head coach of India’s men’s cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, addressed a press conference in Mumbai today, accompanied by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The duo answered questions regarding team selection ahead of the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. India is set to play a three-match T20I series starting on July 27, followed by a three-match ODI series.

Key takeaways

Leadership changes

Gautam Gambhir announced that Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the captain of the T20I squad. Despite speculation and strong support for Hardik Pandya, the management chose Suryakumar for the leadership role. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma will continue to lead the team in the ODI format.

He added, “There has never been a concern over Surya’s T20 batting. The captaincy decision was well thought off, it wasn’t a call that was taken overnight.”

Support for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Gambhir expressed his confidence in veteran players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, stating that they can play in the 2027 ODI World Cup, provided they maintain their fitness levels. He emphasized the importance of their experience and contributions to the team.

“They have a lot of cricket left in them (Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma). There’s a big tour of Australia and Champions Trophy coming up, they will be motivated enough. And if they can keep their fitness even the 2027 World Cup,” Gambhir said.

End of Rahul Dravid’s tenure

The press conference marked a new chapter as Gambhir stepped in to fill the shoes of Rahul Dravid, whose tenure as head coach ended after the T20 World Cup. Gambhir acknowledged Dravid’s contributions and outlined his vision for the team’s future.

“I’m taking over a very, very successful team. A T20 world champion. Runner-up in the World Test Championship and runner-up in the ODI World Cup. It’s not that it’s not a successful team. I have big shoes to fill “, Gambhir said on succeeding Rahul Dravid.

Tour of Sri Lanka

The immediate focus for the new coaching staff is the tour of Sri Lanka. Gambhir and Agarkar discussed the significance of this series for both T20I and ODI formats, highlighting the strategic selections made for this tour. They believe the series will be a crucial test for the new captaincy and overall team dynamics.

He added, “After the Sri Lanka tour, we got a long break and then we have 10 Test matches. That’s what the challenge is all about. Hopefully we can do well in these 10 Test matches. Jadeja is important for those 10 Test matches. Looking forward to those 10 matches. “

Team selection philosophy

Ajit Agarkar provided insights into the team selection process, explaining the criteria and considerations behind the chosen squad. The emphasis was on a balance between experience and youth, aiming to build a robust team capable of performing consistently at the international level.

“Hardik Pandya is a very important player, we have seen it in the World Cup and we need him, but his fitness is a big challenge now. I think we can manage him better. He is still part of our team… Surya Kumar Yadav has all the necessary abilities (to be the captain)…” Agarkar said.   “It’s the feedback we had received from the dressing room and he’s a deserving candidate. For Hardik, fitness has been a challenge.” Agarkar further explained.

See Also: England achieve a historic milestone for the first time ever in Test cricket – Cricket Winner

The press conference set the stage for Gambhir’s tenure as head coach, with clear support for seasoned players and a strategic approach to upcoming challenges.