"He has seldom interfered in what the player does"- KKR Support Staff says don't worry after Gautam Gambhir's appointment

The Indian cricket team is all set for a significant transition under the guidance of their youngest-ever head coach, Gautam Gambhir, at just 42 years old. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Gambhir's appointment as the new head coach on July 9 after his successful stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Gambhir guided the KKR to an IPL title in May 2024 after more than a decade on his return to the franchise as a mentor. The former Indian opener’s tenure as head coach, spanning three and a half years, will start with the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka later this month.

India set for new era with youngest-ever head coach Gautam Gambhir

Well, Gambhir is new to coaching, but his impressive mentorship in the IPL with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and KKR speaks volumes about his potential, and one of his Kolkata colleagues was a fan of his management in the IPL 2024. Gambhir's ability to foster a winning mentality and strategic approach, along with his man-management skills and technical acumen, was on point during the IPL 2024.

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The former Indian opener's qualities have left a great impression on the BCCI, leading him to grab the high-profile job. Meanwhile, Gambhir is known to be a fierce competitor right from his playing days.

He has rarely sported a smile on the field, which has been a much-discussed topic among the cricketing fraternity, but his aggressive and high-intensity style has been a hallmark of his success both as a player and mentor.

Despite his serious and strong personality, Gambhir is known for providing his players with freedom, unwavering support, and confidence, making him a highly respected leader globally.

Apart from these qualities, the 2011 World Cup hero’s relentless desire and hunger for victory are unmatched, and his former KKR colleague felt these qualities undoubtedly contributed to his selection for one of the most challenging roles in world cricket.

KKR team member shares how Gautam Gambhir gets India's head coach job

According to a member of the KKR team, Gambhir rarely interfered with the players once games or training sessions ended. The former Indian batter gave players the freedom to execute their skills without constant interference, apart from providing strong support and backing to players, which fostered an environment where confidence and independence were valued.

He said that the way Gambhir managed KKR players effectively in the IPL significantly contributed to the team’s success in the IPL 2024, and all these qualities helped him become India's head coach. Even BCCI secretary Jay Shah called Gambhir a fierce competitor and a brilliant strategist while confirming his appointment as head coach of the Indian cricket team.

A KKR team member was quoted as saying by The Indian Express: “Once the game or the training ends, he has seldom interfered in what the player does. He gave the players freedom. Moreover, he is someone who will give players enough backing and confidence. At the top level, it is all about how you manage the players.”