'Ashish Nehra is like a football coach': Ex-Mumbai Indians captain showers ultimate praise on GT boss

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has made a bold statement on the new style of coaching in modern cricket amid the ongoing IPL 2026. The coaches in the modern era are becoming active leaders on the field, but sometimes slightly behind the scenes.

This change is visible in the IPL, where quick decisions or tips from the coaches from the dugout or boundaryline make a huge difference. So, Harbhajan feels the teams now need coaches who can guide players instantly, not just before the match but during every over in this modern era.

Harbhajan Singh praises Ashish Nehra’s football-style coaching

One coach is standing out in this new trend, and he is none other than the former Indian fast bowler and the current head coach of the Gujarat Titans (GT), Ashish Nehra. He has already caught attention with his high energy and constant involvement during matches this season too.

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Nehra is always seen moving around, talking to players, giving advice, and reacting to every situation. His style is very similar to football managers, who keep guiding their team from the sidelines throughout the game. He does not sit still for even a moment.

He makes the atmosphere comfortable anywhere: Harbhajan Singh on GT head coach

And now Harbhajan Singh compared his former India teammate Nehar with the football team managers. The former World Cup winner praised the GT head coach for creating a very positive and relaxed environment in the team, which helps them perform better under pressure.

Harbhajan Singh said on JioHotstar’s ‘Champions Waali Commentary’: “Ashish Nehra is the only person who makes the atmosphere comfortable anywhere, anytime. Wherever he goes, he makes everyone around him feel at ease. Not just himself, but everyone who works with him. One of the finest human beings you will ever meet. If you are with him, you are guaranteed to have a good time.”

Ashish Nehra's IPL story with Gujarat Titans

This bonding and unity inside the team is one of the biggest reasons behind Gujarat Titans’ success. They made their dream debut in 2022 when they won the IPL trophy under Nehra’s coaching and Hardik Pandya’s captaincy.

In 2023, GT reached the final but lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Even in 2024, when the Titans went through a slightly tough phase under Shubman Gill, they continued to trust Nehra’s approach, and that trust paid off again in 2025, as they made another playoff appearance.

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Gujarat Titans' ongoing 2026 season also started with struggles, but they have now bounced back strongly with three wins in a row. Now, GT aim to outclass MI in Ahmedabad on April 20.

Nehra is like a football coach, says Harbhajan

Ashish Nehra’s biggest strength is his connection with players. He keeps communicating with them, supports them during tough moments, and keeps the energy high in the dugout. And Harbhajan feels this kind of involvement is now becoming very important in modern cricket for success.

He signed off by saying, “His biggest contribution to Gujarat Titans is keeping everyone united. That is Ashish Nehra. He is like a football coach. He never sits still. Throughout the entirety of a match, he will find a player and keep talking to him. Nehra ji has a great understanding of the game. The work he has done with Gujarat Titans is commendable.”