"Gautam Gambhir isn't important"- BCCI's DIKTAT on conversations around relationship within BCCI

Published - 22 Jul 2024, 12:53 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:16 AM

Gautam Gambhir and Jay Shah
Gautam Gambhir and Jay Shah. Image Credit: X

Indian Cricket Team head coach Gautam Gambhir has opened up about his relationship with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah amidst the swirling rumors and speculation about their cold war regarding the coaching staff.

Gambhir stressed that he shares a fabulous relationship with Shah, and they want to take Indian cricket to new heights. The Indian head coach also mentioned the speculation that he and the BCCI Secretary are not on the same page, saying he just wanted to make it clear that everyone in the system is on the same page, as they all want the development of Indian cricket.

I've got a fabulous relationship with Jay Shah: Gautam Gambhir

The former World Cup winner also revealed that he really enjoyed working with the BCCI, Indian selection committee, and others so far, and now he hopes this relationship will be the same going forward, as each and every person involved wants to see the success of the Indian cricket team.

Gautam Gambhir said at the press conference in Mumbai: “I think I've got a fabulous relationship with him. Mr. Jay Shah, I think we go a long way back, and all these speculations about different things, even on different pages, I think we can do a better job by probably clarifying those things rather than putting them in the press because we go a long way back, and so far. I think it's been a great relationship."

Gambhir further noted, “Hopefully it continues that way because the development of Indian cricket is more important than Gautam Gambhir. I think if all of us have our hearts in the right place and if all of us think that Indian cricket needs to move forward, then I think all of us are on the same page. I really enjoyed working with him so far, and hopefully, I can continue the same in the future as well.”

It's all about winning, and we try to play fair and hard: Gautam Gambhir on his coaching philosophy

Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir has shared insights into his coaching philosophy, as he is set to begin his journey as head coach for the Indian cricket team with the upcoming limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. Emphasizing the importance of winning, Gambhir believes in playing fair and hard to ensure wins and a positive team environment.

However, as likely, the former Indian batter said that he prefers a straightforward approach and doesn’t want unnecessary complications. Gambhir asserted that the support staff plays a crucial role in the team’s success, but the team ultimately belongs to the players and how they perform.

The new head coach further mentioned that the job of the support staff is just to provide the necessary support and keep the players happy, creating an environment where they can perform at their best, but it’s the players who play on the field and win matches for the team. He declared that focus will be on players’ well-being and fostering a happy team environment.