‘It depends on..’: Shahid Afridi shares his blunt take on Gautam Gambhir as Team India’s new head coach

Jul 11, 2024

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‘It depends on..’: Shahid Afridi shares his blunt take on Gautam Gambhir as Team India’s new head coach

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Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has shared his thoughts on India‘s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced Gambhir’s appointment following Rahul Dravid‘s decision not to extend his tenure.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah made the announcement official on Tuesday (July 9), highlighting Gambhir’s unique perspective on the rapidly evolving nature of cricket. At 42, Gambhir becomes India’s youngest head coach, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the role. His tenure will begin with India’s white-ball tour of Sri Lanka in July 2024, where he will face the challenge of leading a young Indian side, as senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be rested.

Shahid Afridi’s perspective on Gautam Gambhir’s new role

During the World Championship of Legends (WCL) in Birmingham, England, Afridi was asked about Gambhir’s new role as India’s head coach. Afridi expressed optimism, describing the appointment as a significant opportunity for Gambhir. He emphasized Gambhir’s positive and straightforward nature, which he believes are good qualities for a coach.

“I think it’s a big opportunity, and we need to see how he makes the most of it. I have seen his interviews, and he talks positively and is very straightforward,” Afridi was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.

Also READ: Andy Flower provides his verdict on Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as head coach of Team India

Challenges and opportunities ahead

Gambhir’s coaching tenure, set to run until December 2027, will encompass a crucial period for Indian cricket. During this time, India will compete in three ICC white-ball tournaments and potentially two World Test Championship (WTC) finals in 2025 and 2027. Gambhir’s ability to mold and guide a young team will be tested, especially with the immediate task of the Sri Lanka tour. His approach to player development and game strategy will be closely watched as he navigates this new phase of his career.