As Gautam Gambhir steps into his new role as Team India’s head coach, he received a heartfelt surprise message from his predecessor, Rahul Dravid, ahead of the first T20I against Sri Lanka. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video in which Dravid conveyed his best wishes, sharing valuable insights and experiences from his own tenure as head coach. Dravid’s message was filled with warmth and encouragement, welcoming Gambhir to what he described as the “most exciting job in the world.”

Dravid reflects on Gambhir’s coaching journey

In his message, Dravid praised Gambhir’s achievements and dedication, reflecting on his time as a coach and mentor for various Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. He expressed confidence in Gambhir’s ability to lead the national team, noting his strategic acumen and passion for the game. Dravid’s insights were not only about the technical aspects of coaching but also touched on the importance of fostering a positive team environment and the need for emotional resilience.

𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 & 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲! 📝

To,
Gautam Gambhir ✉

From,
Rahul Dravid 🔊#TeamIndia | #SLvIND | @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/k33X5GKHm0

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 27, 2024

“From one Indian cricket coach to another, one last thing. In the most heated of times, exhale, take a step back, and even if it’s difficult for you, crack a smile. Whatever else happens, that will shock people. I wish you the very best, Gautam, and I’m sure you will take the Indian team to even greater heights,” Dravid concluded.

Gambhir’s emotional response

Overwhelmed by Dravid’s thoughtful gesture, Gautam Gambhir admitted that the message made him emotional. Dravid’s words of wisdom and encouragement struck a chord with Gambhir, reminding him of the legacy he is set to inherit. In his message, Dravid humorously urged Gambhir to remember to smile, even during challenging times, a reminder of the camaraderie they shared during their playing days. Gambhir’s response highlighted his respect for Dravid and his determination to carry forward the successful path paved by his predecessor.

“Not me, not individuals, but what Indian cricket is. I feel, I think, I don’t get too much emotional normally, but I think this message actually made me a lot emotional, which normally I assume, but it’s a great message. Hopefully, I can… It’s a massive shoes to fill. Hopefully, I can do it with absolute honesty, transparency, and hopefully, I can make the entire nation, and more importantly, the person who I’ve always looked up to, Rahul Bhai Proud,” he said.

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The exchange between Dravid and Gambhir reflects not only the transition of leadership within the Indian cricket team but also the deep bonds and mutual respect that exist among former teammates. As Gambhir embarks on this new chapter, the legacy and support of his predecessors will undoubtedly guide him in leading Team India to new heights.