Gautam Gambhir is BCCI's top choice for Team India head coach's job: Report

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has emerged as the top contender on BCCI's wishlist to become the head coach of the India men's cricket team after Rahul Dravid's tenure concludes following the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. According to ESPNcricinfo, the BCCI has already reached out to Gambhir, who is currently the mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, to assess his interest in the position. Further discussions are anticipated after KKR's IPL 2024 campaign ends. Notably, the application deadline for the India head coach role is May 27, just a day after the IPL final.

Dravid has reportedly informed the BCCI of his decision not to seek an extension of his coaching tenure. This opens the door for Gambhir, who, despite lacking formal coaching experience at the international or domestic level, has been influential as a mentor in the IPL. Gambhir served as a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2022 and 2023, helping the team qualify for the playoffs both seasons. In 2024, he transitioned to KKR, guiding them to the top of the league table in the ongoing season. His move to KKR was unexpected, but it is understood that Shah Rukh Khan, the franchise's principal owner, played a significant role in persuading Gambhir to take on the mentoring role.

Gambhir's cricketing credentials are impressive. He was a key player in India's victories at the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. Additionally, as the captain of KKR from 2011 to 2017, he led the team to five playoff appearances and secured two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.

While Gambhir, 42, may not have direct coaching experience, his leadership skills and success in the IPL highlight his potential to step into the head coach role for Team India. His ability to mentor and guide players has been evident in his IPL stints, and these qualities could translate well into coaching at the national level.

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