<p>India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12). Samson, however, hit a four to reach his ton off 40 balls - the second fastest for India in T20Is.</p>

<p>“When I was 96 I told Surya that I'll smash but Surya told me to go easy because you earned it. But I'm very happy with the kind of clarity I've received from captain Surya and Gautam bhai. They said play aggressively and be humble and that suits me well,” he said after the match.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dont-have-any-status-aakash-chopra-on-hardik-pandyas-batting-against-bangladesh-bowlers-767078">'Don’t have any status...,' Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya's batting against Bangladesh bowlers</a></p>

<p>Samson eventually got out after scoring 111 off 47 balls as India managed 297/6&nbsp;in 20 overs - the highest T20I score by a Test playing nation and second highest overall in T20Is behind Nepal's 314 against Mongolia in Asian Games last year.</p>

<p>In reply, Bangladesh could manage just 164/7 and lost the match by 133 runs as India completed a 3-0 whitewash.</p>

<p>Skipper Surya also lauded Samson's selflessness and asserted that he wants those kind of players in the team.</p>

<p>"No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” Surya said.</p>

<p>India had a lot of bright spots for them in series, including pacer Mayank Yadav, who made his debut for India, and Hardik Pandya with all-round performance.</p>

<p>Pandya was named Player-of-the-Series for his 118 runs and a wicket across three matches. He scored those runs at an average of 59 and a strike rate of 222.64.&nbsp;</p>


India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12).

India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12). Samson, however, hit a four to reach his ton off 40 balls - the second fastest for India in T20Is. “When I was 96 I told Surya that I'll smash but Surya told me to go easy because you earned it. But I'm very happy with the kind of clarity I've received from captain Surya and Gautam bhai. They said play aggressively and be humble and that suits me well,” he said after the match. Also Read: 'Don’t have any status...,' Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya's batting against Bangladesh bowlers Samson eventually got out after scoring 111 off 47 balls as India managed 297/6 in 20 overs - the highest T20I score by a Test playing nation and second highest overall in T20Is behind Nepal's 314 against Mongolia in Asian Games last year. In reply, Bangladesh could manage just 164/7 and lost the match by 133 runs as India completed a 3-0 whitewash. Skipper Surya also lauded Samson's selflessness and asserted that he wants those kind of players in the team. "No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” Surya said. India had a lot of bright spots for them in series, including pacer Mayank Yadav, who made his debut for India, and Hardik Pandya with all-round performance. Pandya was named Player-of-the-Series for his 118 runs and a wicket across three matches. He scored those runs at an average of 59 and a strike rate of 222.64.

'Be humble,' Sanju Samson reveals advice by skipper Suryakumar and coach Gambhir after ton vs Bangladesh

<p>Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and&nbsp;helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6). While SKY slammed a stunning 75 off just 35 balls, Sanju hit his maiden T20I ton, hitting 111 in 47 deliveries, including 11 fours and eight sixes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-v-eng-2024-babar-azam-set-to-be-dropped-for-second-test-in-multan-767023">PAK v ENG 2024: Babar Azam set to be dropped for second Test in Multan</a></strong></p>

<p>After failing to perform in the first two games, Sanju came good in the last match of the series. From 62 runs off 29 balls, Sanju raced to 92 off 35 deliveries after hitting five sixes in one over of Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. Then on 96, he smashed offie Mahedi Hasan over his head to complete a 40-ball hundred – the second-fastest for an Indian in T20Is.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hyderabad jumps in joy to celebrate the centurion! 🥳<br />
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📽️ WATCH the 💯 moment<br />
<br />
Live - <a href="https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC">https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/OM5jB2oBMu">pic.twitter.com/OM5jB2oBMu</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1845113589998207064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reflecting on how Sanju paced his innings and even at a time when he could have carefully got to his century, he smashed one for a boundary, doing it fearlessly and selflessly, Suryakumar said the same approach is what he wants from his team, something the head coach Gautam Gambhir also echoed in the dressing room earlier.</p>

<p>"I think we have achieved a lot as a team," Suryakumar said during the post-match presser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Most importantly, as I said at the start of the series, I want to have selfless cricketers in my team. We want to be a selfless team, and as Hardik [Pandya] said, we want to just enjoy each others' performance on the field and off the field and spend as much time as possible, and that camaraderie is carrying on the field, and we're having some fun."</p>

<p>"The chat around the team has been like that. Gauti bhai said the same thing at the start of the series and when we went to Sri Lanka as well: 'No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” he continued.</p>

<h2>‘Flexibility benefitting us’&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Suryakumar also stressed on players being flexible with their roles in the T20I team. With most of the top players rested for Bangladesh T20Is, the Indian Team had several debutants and emerging players in the XI in the three contested matches, with SKY dictating terms on what is needed out of whom.</p>

<p>"We've to be very flexible when it comes to batting and bowling as well," Suryakumar said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyone has to chip in with few overs who can, and batters have to be very flexible. The way they showed it in the series was very commendable."</p>

<p>"Just [have to] maintain the good habits and continue that on the field and just be the same,” he concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Team India will host New Zealand for three Tests at home, with the first match beginning on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6).

Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6). While SKY slammed a stunning 75 off just 35 balls, Sanju hit his maiden T20I ton, hitting 111 in 47 deliveries, including 11 fours and eight sixes. ALSO READ: PAK v ENG 2024: Babar Azam set to be dropped for second Test in Multan After failing to perform in the first two games, Sanju came good in the last match of the series. From 62 runs off 29 balls, Sanju raced to 92 off 35 deliveries after hitting five sixes in one over of Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. Then on 96, he smashed offie Mahedi Hasan over his head to complete a 40-ball hundred – the second-fastest for an Indian in T20Is. Hyderabad jumps in joy to celebrate the centurion! 🥳 📽️ WATCH the 💯 moment Live - https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC#TeamIndia | #INDvBAN | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/OM5jB2oBMu — BCCI (@BCCI) October 12, 2024 × Reflecting on how Sanju paced his innings and even at a time when he could have carefully got to his century, he smashed one for a boundary, doing it fearlessly and selflessly, Suryakumar said the same approach is what he wants from his team, something the head coach Gautam Gambhir also echoed in the dressing room earlier. "I think we have achieved a lot as a team," Suryakumar said during the post-match presser. "Most importantly, as I said at the start of the series, I want to have selfless cricketers in my team. We want to be a selfless team, and as Hardik [Pandya] said, we want to just enjoy each others' performance on the field and off the field and spend as much time as possible, and that camaraderie is carrying on the field, and we're having some fun." "The chat around the team has been like that. Gauti bhai said the same thing at the start of the series and when we went to Sri Lanka as well: 'No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” he continued. ‘Flexibility benefitting us’ Suryakumar also stressed on players being flexible with their roles in the T20I team. With most of the top players rested for Bangladesh T20Is, the Indian Team had several debutants and emerging players in the XI in the three contested matches, with SKY dictating terms on what is needed out of whom. "We've to be very flexible when it comes to batting and bowling as well," Suryakumar said. "Everyone has to chip in with few overs who can, and batters have to be very flexible. The way they showed it in the series was very commendable." "Just [have to] maintain the good habits and continue that on the field and just be the same,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Team India will host New Zealand for three Tests at home, with the first match beginning on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru. (With inputs from agencies)

Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I

<p>Ace Indian T20 batter Rinku Singh has emerged as a force to reckon with in recent times, and following his latest outing against Bangladesh in the 2nd T20I in Delhi, he cleared any doubts anyone had about his game. Although he seems to tick every box as a finisher in the shortest format, the left-hander reflects on the advice his team's coach&nbsp;Gautam Gambhir and skipper Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;gave him that helped him get better at his game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Bangladesh reduced India to 41 for three inside the first six overs, the new pairing of Rinku and Player of the Match Nitish Reddy&nbsp;for his magnificent 74 off 34 balls, added 104 runs for the fourth wicket, with Rinku completing a stunning 29-ball 53.</p>

<p>Though Nitish's exploits might have made headlines, Rinku's stable outing gave the batters (to come) the extra cushion to play their natural game. Reflecting on his match-winning knock in Delhi, Rinku revealed how Gambhir and Suryakumar's advice comforted him to play his natural game throughout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Coach and captain have asked us to play our game, whatever the situation is," Rinku told reporters after the second T20I, which India won by 86 runs. “I have been told to back myself and hit the ball. Gautam bhai has given us the freedom.”</p>

<p>Even though the BCCI overlooked Rinku in the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Americas, which India won, the selectors have backed him to continue delivering in his role (as a finisher) in the shortest format.<br />
<br />
Explaining his batting mantra, Rinku said,&nbsp;“My batting order is such that there is no fixed time when I will come to bat. When the wicket falls early, then my plan is to keep the scoreboard ticking with ones and twos and wait for the poor balls to cash in. If only two and three overs are left, I try to score as many runs as possible and hit fours and sixes.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'I see myself as a three-format player'&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Rinku, who will return to playing Ranji Trophy right after India's final game on Saturday (October 12), says he will grind extra in the nets to adapt to the red-ball cricket, adding he considers himself an all-format player.</p>

<p>“I will not get enough chance to prepare for the Ranji Trophy match. October 12 is our last match. I will get a couple of days. It is very tough to play red ball after playing the white ball. When I will go to Lucknow, I will bat more in the nets,” he said. “I see myself as a three-format player."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India has already won the T20I series against Bangladesh, with Hyderabad hosting the dead rubber on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ace Indian T20 batter Rinku Singh has emerged as a force to reckon with in recent times, and following his latest outing against Bangladesh in the 2nd T20I in Delhi, he cleared any doubts anyone had about his game.

Ace Indian T20 batter Rinku Singh has emerged as a force to reckon with in recent times, and following his latest outing against Bangladesh in the 2nd T20I in Delhi, he cleared any doubts anyone had about his game. Although he seems to tick every box as a finisher in the shortest format, the left-hander reflects on the advice his team's coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Suryakumar Yadav gave him that helped him get better at his game. After Bangladesh reduced India to 41 for three inside the first six overs, the new pairing of Rinku and Player of the Match Nitish Reddy for his magnificent 74 off 34 balls, added 104 runs for the fourth wicket, with Rinku completing a stunning 29-ball 53. Though Nitish's exploits might have made headlines, Rinku's stable outing gave the batters (to come) the extra cushion to play their natural game. Reflecting on his match-winning knock in Delhi, Rinku revealed how Gambhir and Suryakumar's advice comforted him to play his natural game throughout. “Coach and captain have asked us to play our game, whatever the situation is," Rinku told reporters after the second T20I, which India won by 86 runs. “I have been told to back myself and hit the ball. Gautam bhai has given us the freedom.” Even though the BCCI overlooked Rinku in the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Americas, which India won, the selectors have backed him to continue delivering in his role (as a finisher) in the shortest format. Explaining his batting mantra, Rinku said, “My batting order is such that there is no fixed time when I will come to bat. When the wicket falls early, then my plan is to keep the scoreboard ticking with ones and twos and wait for the poor balls to cash in. If only two and three overs are left, I try to score as many runs as possible and hit fours and sixes.” 'I see myself as a three-format player' Rinku, who will return to playing Ranji Trophy right after India's final game on Saturday (October 12), says he will grind extra in the nets to adapt to the red-ball cricket, adding he considers himself an all-format player. “I will not get enough chance to prepare for the Ranji Trophy match. October 12 is our last match. I will get a couple of days. It is very tough to play red ball after playing the white ball. When I will go to Lucknow, I will bat more in the nets,” he said. “I see myself as a three-format player." Meanwhile, India has already won the T20I series against Bangladesh, with Hyderabad hosting the dead rubber on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Rinku Singh thrives on freedom to express in shaping his T20 game, reflects on Gambhir, SKY's advice

<p>West Indies' veteran all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor for the IPL 2025 edition. Gambhir rejoined the KKR camp, after 2017,&nbsp;to serve as Shreyas Iyer-led side's mentor in IPL 2024, leading them to their third title. Bravo, who retired from all forms of cricket after his CPL 2024 stint on Thursday (Sep 26), will join the Kolkata-based franchise after parting ways with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). At the CSK camp, he served as the bowling coach prior to this appointment.</p>

<p>Bravo also expressed his enthusiasm and said, "I've been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate. The owners' passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-dont-have-ability-to-bcb-president-on-shakib-al-hasans-security-at-home-amid-murder-charges-762406">We don't have ability to...: BCB president on Shakib Al Hasan's security at home amid murder charges</a></strong></p>

<p>During his illustrious career, Bravo has been a huge name in T20s. He has played 582 T20 games, claiming 631 wickets, and scored close to 7,000 runs. With more championship wins than any other cricketer, Bravo's experience will surely help the Kolkata camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Group, also reacted to Bravo's appointment and said, "DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development. His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players. We're also pleased that Bravo will be involved with our other franchises globally, including CPL, MLC, and ILT20."</p>

<p>Bravo replaces Gambhir, who left the KKR mentorship spot vacant after being named as India head coach in early July. He rejoined the KKR camp after serving as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor from 2022-23. His rejoining at KKR proved to be fruitful with the franchise adding another IPL title to their cabinet. Their earlier two titles came during&nbsp;Gambhir's captaincy.</p>


West Indies' veteran all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor for the IPL 2025 edition. Gambhir rejoined the KKR camp, after 2017, to serve as Shreyas Iyer-led side's mentor in IPL 2024, leading them to their third title.

West Indies' veteran all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor for the IPL 2025 edition. Gambhir rejoined the KKR camp, after 2017, to serve as Shreyas Iyer-led side's mentor in IPL 2024, leading them to their third title. Bravo, who retired from all forms of cricket after his CPL 2024 stint on Thursday (Sep 26), will join the Kolkata-based franchise after parting ways with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). At the CSK camp, he served as the bowling coach prior to this appointment. Bravo also expressed his enthusiasm and said, "I've been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate. The owners' passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players." Also read: We don't have ability to...: BCB president on Shakib Al Hasan's security at home amid murder charges During his illustrious career, Bravo has been a huge name in T20s. He has played 582 T20 games, claiming 631 wickets, and scored close to 7,000 runs. With more championship wins than any other cricketer, Bravo's experience will surely help the Kolkata camp. Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Group, also reacted to Bravo's appointment and said, "DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development. His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players. We're also pleased that Bravo will be involved with our other franchises globally, including CPL, MLC, and ILT20." Bravo replaces Gambhir, who left the KKR mentorship spot vacant after being named as India head coach in early July. He rejoined the KKR camp after serving as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor from 2022-23. His rejoining at KKR proved to be fruitful with the franchise adding another IPL title to their cabinet. Their earlier two titles came during Gambhir's captaincy.

IPL 2025: Dwayne Bravo leaves CSK to succeed Gautam Gambhir as KKR mentor

<p>India spinner Ravi Ashwin has revealed that new head coach Gautam Gambhir is very relaxed in his approach while his predecessor Rahul Dravid was more 'regimented.' The statement comes after India won their first Test under Gambhir's coaching, beating Bangladesh by 280 runs in the first of two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think he (Gambhir) is very relaxed. There is nothing at all. In the morning, in the huddle. 'Are you coming?' Like that," &nbsp;Ashwin shared on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rahul Bhai is like, we will come. As soon as we come, the bottles should be in a place. He is very regimented. He is like, everything should be in order, according to him. He has a relaxed order. I feel that he captures the minds of the people. He loves the boys. He is not only relaxed," the spinner added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/because-were-new-pakistan-test-coach-jason-gillespie-on-pcbs-connection-camp-about-unity-761373">'Because we're new...,' Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie on PCB's connection camp about unity</a></p>

<p>Before the Bangladesh Tests, Gambhir had a mixed start to his coaching regime as India won the three-T20I series against Sri Lanka 3-0 but lost the ODI series 2-0.</p>

<p>Ashwin, who came back in the squad for the Test series, played a pivotal role with both bat and ball. The spinner scored 113 runs in the first innings and took a six-for in the second innings.</p>

<p>Ashwin also lauded the pitch in Chennai - his home ground - and asked the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association for&nbsp;similar pitches in&nbsp;the upcoming domestic Ranji Trophy as well.</p>

<p>"Easily one of the best cricket pitches I have played in India for a while. Awesome pitch and I really hope Tamil Nadu play Ranji Trophy on such pitches. The way they have laid the pitch, they should take it to the next level. Outstanding Test match wicket," said the offie.</p>

<p>The second Test against Bangladesh will start in Kanpur from September 27.</p>


India spinner Ravi Ashwin has revealed that new head coach Gautam Gambhir is very relaxed in his approach while his predecessor Rahul Dravid was more 'regimented.

India spinner Ravi Ashwin has revealed that new head coach Gautam Gambhir is very relaxed in his approach while his predecessor Rahul Dravid was more 'regimented.' The statement comes after India won their first Test under Gambhir's coaching, beating Bangladesh by 280 runs in the first of two Tests. "I think he (Gambhir) is very relaxed. There is nothing at all. In the morning, in the huddle. 'Are you coming?' Like that," Ashwin shared on his YouTube channel. "Rahul Bhai is like, we will come. As soon as we come, the bottles should be in a place. He is very regimented. He is like, everything should be in order, according to him. He has a relaxed order. I feel that he captures the minds of the people. He loves the boys. He is not only relaxed," the spinner added. Also Read: 'Because we're new...,' Pakistan Test coach Jason Gillespie on PCB's connection camp about unity Before the Bangladesh Tests, Gambhir had a mixed start to his coaching regime as India won the three-T20I series against Sri Lanka 3-0 but lost the ODI series 2-0. Ashwin, who came back in the squad for the Test series, played a pivotal role with both bat and ball. The spinner scored 113 runs in the first innings and took a six-for in the second innings. Ashwin also lauded the pitch in Chennai - his home ground - and asked the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association for similar pitches in the upcoming domestic Ranji Trophy as well. "Easily one of the best cricket pitches I have played in India for a while. Awesome pitch and I really hope Tamil Nadu play Ranji Trophy on such pitches. The way they have laid the pitch, they should take it to the next level. Outstanding Test match wicket," said the offie. The second Test against Bangladesh will start in Kanpur from September 27.

'Everything should be in order...,' Gambhir relaxed while Dravid 'regimented' says India spinner Ravi Ashwin

<p>Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;milestone.</p>

<p>Two months into his new role, Gambhir oversaw India win the T20I series win against Sri Lanka, but they lost the One-Dayers, with his latest assignment being the ongoing Test series with Bangladesh at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid and Gambhir have played together for several years, and having known GG from closed quarters, Dravid sounded pleased with Gautam’s appointment. Although he admitted every coach would have his share of success and failures, Dravid backed Gambhir to taste success only for what he brings. Rahul said the Indian Team would benefit hugely under GG’s leadership.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-ban-1st-test-ravi-ashwin-pleased-with-6th-test-hundred-says-its-special-to-play-in-chennai-760124">IND v BAN 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ‘pleased’ with 6th Test hundred, says ‘it’s special to play in Chennai’</a></strong></p>

<p>"He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great," Dravid said during a media interaction at the launch event of 'Roombr,' a 'Digital Classroom' provider.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In any situation, everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," the former India head coach added.</p>

<h2><strong>India succeeded under Dravid</strong></h2>

<p>Dravid’s appointment brought wholesome changes to Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as all-format captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Dravid, like it was during his captaincy days, Team India came close to winning ICC titles but failed in most. They reached three finals and one semi-final of three ICC events during his tutelage, with their only success coming in the last one (T20 WC) against South Africa in June earlier this year.</p>

<p>India also won the Border-Gavaskar series and the five-match Test series under Dravid at home, with winning the 2023 Asia Cup Final against Sri Lanka being the highlight.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>What is next in line for Gautam?</strong></h3>

<p>Team India will play 10 Tests until January next year, with Gambhir’s toughest assignment being the away five-match Test series against Australia starting November 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Men in Blue will then partake in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for the February-March window in Pakistan next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a huge milestone.

Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a huge milestone. Two months into his new role, Gambhir oversaw India win the T20I series win against Sri Lanka, but they lost the One-Dayers, with his latest assignment being the ongoing Test series with Bangladesh at home. Dravid and Gambhir have played together for several years, and having known GG from closed quarters, Dravid sounded pleased with Gautam’s appointment. Although he admitted every coach would have his share of success and failures, Dravid backed Gambhir to taste success only for what he brings. Rahul said the Indian Team would benefit hugely under GG’s leadership. ALSO READ: IND v BAN 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ‘pleased’ with 6th Test hundred, says ‘it’s special to play in Chennai’ "He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great," Dravid said during a media interaction at the launch event of 'Roombr,' a 'Digital Classroom' provider. "In any situation, everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," the former India head coach added. India succeeded under Dravid Dravid’s appointment brought wholesome changes to Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as all-format captain. Under Dravid, like it was during his captaincy days, Team India came close to winning ICC titles but failed in most. They reached three finals and one semi-final of three ICC events during his tutelage, with their only success coming in the last one (T20 WC) against South Africa in June earlier this year. India also won the Border-Gavaskar series and the five-match Test series under Dravid at home, with winning the 2023 Asia Cup Final against Sri Lanka being the highlight. What is next in line for Gautam? Team India will play 10 Tests until January next year, with Gambhir’s toughest assignment being the away five-match Test series against Australia starting November 22. The Men in Blue will then partake in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for the February-March window in Pakistan next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Dravid backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in new role, says 'team will benefit from what he brings to the table'

<p>With a day to go for the start of India’s first home Test series of the season, former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has backed Gautam Gambhir to succeed. India will take on Bangladesh on Thursday in the opening test match of the two-match series, marking Gambhir’s debut as test coach. According to Karthik, players will enjoy Gambhir’s leadership and company as they look to set a marker in the World Test Championship (WTC) final race.</p>

<h2><strong>Karthik backs Gambhir</strong></h2>

<p>"His aggression has generally come out in protection of his players and that is something the current lot of players will enjoy. Knowing him, he is not someone who gets angry for the heck of it," Karthik told reporters on the sidelines of a Legends League Cricket event.</p>

<p>"I'm sure he will have his turn with strong words for whoever is required, and it is in his best interest to get the best out of the players," he added.</p>

<p>India will take on Bangladesh in the opening Test in Chennai as vital points in the WTC final cycle are up for grabs. Key players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah will return for India in the opening Test. They all skipped the start of the domestic season which included the Duleep Trophy and only arrived in Chennai last week.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/manchester-citys-rodri-warns-of-strike-amid-growing-number-of-matches-759545">Manchester City's Rodri warns of STRIKE amid growing number of matches</a></strong></p>

<p>India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. According to reports, a BCCI official confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepares for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon.</p>

<h2><strong>India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series:</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>


With a day to go for the start of India’s first home Test series of the season, former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has backed Gautam Gambhir to succeed. India will take on Bangladesh on Thursday in the opening test match of the two-match series, marking Gambhir’s debut as test coach.

With a day to go for the start of India’s first home Test series of the season, former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has backed Gautam Gambhir to succeed. India will take on Bangladesh on Thursday in the opening test match of the two-match series, marking Gambhir’s debut as test coach. According to Karthik, players will enjoy Gambhir’s leadership and company as they look to set a marker in the World Test Championship (WTC) final race. Karthik backs Gambhir "His aggression has generally come out in protection of his players and that is something the current lot of players will enjoy. Knowing him, he is not someone who gets angry for the heck of it," Karthik told reporters on the sidelines of a Legends League Cricket event. "I'm sure he will have his turn with strong words for whoever is required, and it is in his best interest to get the best out of the players," he added. India will take on Bangladesh in the opening Test in Chennai as vital points in the WTC final cycle are up for grabs. Key players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah will return for India in the opening Test. They all skipped the start of the domestic season which included the Duleep Trophy and only arrived in Chennai last week. ALSO READ | Manchester City's Rodri warns of STRIKE amid growing number of matches India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. According to reports, a BCCI official confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepares for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon. India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

IND vs BAN: Dinesh Karthik backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in Test format as coach, says 'players will enjoy'

<p>India will have their eyes on the prize as they start a busy Test schedule with Bangladesh. And with the Australian tour to come in November, the Bangladesh series starting from Thursday (Sep 19) will be the perfect warm-up for Rohit Sharma and his men. Interestingly, Bangladesh head into the series with a 2-0 win over Pakistan and will be high on confidence as they look to cause yet another upset and win their maiden Test match on Indian soil. Ahead of the&nbsp;contest, here are all the details of the series&nbsp;including live streaming, squads and others.</p>

<h2><strong>When is the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be played on Thursday (Sep 19).</p>

<h2><strong>Which stadium will host the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai</p>

<h2><strong>What time will the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match start?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will start at 9:30 AM IST with toss taking place at 9:00 AM IST.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-dinesh-karthik-backs-gautam-gambhir-to-succeed-in-test-format-as-coach-says-players-will-enjoy-759627">IND vs BAN: Dinesh Karthik backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in Test format as coach, says 'players will enjoy'</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match on TV?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be telecast on the Sports 18 Network and Colors Cineplex.</p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match on OTT?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be live streamed on the Jio Cinema app and website in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Squads:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>India&nbsp;Squad:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>

<p><strong>Bangladesh&nbsp;Squad: </strong>Najmul Hossain Shanto , Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Jaker Ali Anik.</p>


India will have their eyes on the prize as they start a busy Test schedule with Bangladesh. And with the Australian tour to come in November, the Bangladesh series starting from Thursday (Sep 19) will be the perfect warm-up for Rohit Sharma and his men.

India will have their eyes on the prize as they start a busy Test schedule with Bangladesh. And with the Australian tour to come in November, the Bangladesh series starting from Thursday (Sep 19) will be the perfect warm-up for Rohit Sharma and his men. Interestingly, Bangladesh head into the series with a 2-0 win over Pakistan and will be high on confidence as they look to cause yet another upset and win their maiden Test match on Indian soil. Ahead of the contest, here are all the details of the series including live streaming, squads and others. When is the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match? The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be played on Thursday (Sep 19). Which stadium will host the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match? The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai What time will the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match start? The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will start at 9:30 AM IST with toss taking place at 9:00 AM IST. ALSO READ | IND vs BAN: Dinesh Karthik backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in Test format as coach, says 'players will enjoy' Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match on TV? The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be telecast on the Sports 18 Network and Colors Cineplex. Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match on OTT? The India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match will be live streamed on the Jio Cinema app and website in India. Squads: India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal. Bangladesh Squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto , Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Jaker Ali Anik.

IND vs BAN, 1st Test match  Live Streaming: When, where & how to watch India vs Bangladesh Live on TV

<p>Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022). Under Kohli, India were unbeaten at home and won a Test series in Australia, attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in 2021 (a series which was halted for a year and eventually ended in a 2-2 stalemate post Kohli's tenure) and won two Tests in South Africa. In addition, India reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings, and held the top spot for long, before also ending as runners-up in the inaugural WTC cycle (2019-21).</p>

<p>Thus, Gambhir lauded Kohli for transforming India's Test side after the departure of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh, etc. Kohli, who was 26 when he succeeded MS Dhoni as Test skipper, revamped the team – which was languishing at the seventh spot back then – by building a solid pace attack, stressing on lower-order runs and focusing on taking 20 wickets every game irrespective of playing at home or away.</p>

<h2><strong>'When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has, solutions came'</strong></h2>

<p>The chat commenced with Kohli recalling his plans as a Test captain&nbsp;after taking over post the departure of many stalwarts. He said, on BCCI.tv, "The thing that excited me about Test cricket and when I was coming up as captain was the challenge. We were transitioning when you guys had made way for a youngster team and Mahi bhai left Test captaincy. I was 25, so for me it was like 'I am here with a bunch of 24-25 year-old guys. How do we become household names?' We sat down and thought 'I really need to plan this out. This can't happen by chance'."</p>

<p>"When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has to be in 7 years' time, the solutions came. We need a group of fast bowlers. We need batters who can bat long. We need to give ownership to five batters and a keeper to get us 350-400. We can't have a seventh option. I remember the challenge excited me. I didn't feel like 'Oh my god! I don't want any part in this'. And that's when I was like I am all in," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-india-is-a-batting-obsessed-nation-but-bumrah-ashwin-changing-trend-says-coach-gautam-gambhir-759787">Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'What you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit'</strong></h2>

<p>To this, Gambhir joined in and said, "I can understand what you might have gone through. A 24-25 year-old boy taking up Test captaincy and then what you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets. Till the time you don't have a strong bowling line-up, you won't [win]. And that is what made you the most successful Test captain in the country."</p>

<p>"Credit has to go to you because as a batter it is very easy to have a strong 6-7 batters putting runs on the board but the way you identified and more importantly, the attitude which you brought on the field from fast bowlers. Imagine having people like Shami, Bumrah, Ishant, Umesh and then winning overseas. I remember you playing that knock in Adelaide. We were chasing 400; it was your first game as captain, and you still wanted to win that Test match. That is the mindset, that is the culture we want to bring in," he added.</p>

<p>Kohli signed off with 40 wins in 68 Tests, ending as India's most successful Test skipper.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit-led India is commencing a hectic Test season with a two-match home series versus Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. After that, they will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>


Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai.

Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022). Under Kohli, India were unbeaten at home and won a Test series in Australia, attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in 2021 (a series which was halted for a year and eventually ended in a 2-2 stalemate post Kohli's tenure) and won two Tests in South Africa. In addition, India reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings, and held the top spot for long, before also ending as runners-up in the inaugural WTC cycle (2019-21). Thus, Gambhir lauded Kohli for transforming India's Test side after the departure of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh, etc. Kohli, who was 26 when he succeeded MS Dhoni as Test skipper, revamped the team – which was languishing at the seventh spot back then – by building a solid pace attack, stressing on lower-order runs and focusing on taking 20 wickets every game irrespective of playing at home or away. 'When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has, solutions came' The chat commenced with Kohli recalling his plans as a Test captain after taking over post the departure of many stalwarts. He said, on BCCI.tv, "The thing that excited me about Test cricket and when I was coming up as captain was the challenge. We were transitioning when you guys had made way for a youngster team and Mahi bhai left Test captaincy. I was 25, so for me it was like 'I am here with a bunch of 24-25 year-old guys. How do we become household names?' We sat down and thought 'I really need to plan this out. This can't happen by chance'." "When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has to be in 7 years' time, the solutions came. We need a group of fast bowlers. We need batters who can bat long. We need to give ownership to five batters and a keeper to get us 350-400. We can't have a seventh option. I remember the challenge excited me. I didn't feel like 'Oh my god! I don't want any part in this'. And that's when I was like I am all in," he stated. Also read: Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir 'What you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit' To this, Gambhir joined in and said, "I can understand what you might have gone through. A 24-25 year-old boy taking up Test captaincy and then what you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets. Till the time you don't have a strong bowling line-up, you won't [win]. And that is what made you the most successful Test captain in the country." "Credit has to go to you because as a batter it is very easy to have a strong 6-7 batters putting runs on the board but the way you identified and more importantly, the attitude which you brought on the field from fast bowlers. Imagine having people like Shami, Bumrah, Ishant, Umesh and then winning overseas. I remember you playing that knock in Adelaide. We were chasing 400; it was your first game as captain, and you still wanted to win that Test match. That is the mindset, that is the culture we want to bring in," he added. Kohli signed off with 40 wins in 68 Tests, ending as India's most successful Test skipper. At present, Rohit-led India is commencing a hectic Test season with a two-match home series versus Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. After that, they will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

That is what made you...: Gambhir HAILS Virat Kohli for transforming India's Test team after succeeding Dhoni

<p>India coach Gautam Gambhir has asked for debate on Indian pitches to end ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh which starts September 19 in Chennai. Gambhir made the remarks while talking at the pre-game match conference.</p>

<p>"The thing is when you go to places like Australia, England, South Africa, the Test gets over in two and a half days, then there is not so much talk.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-they-did-in-pakistan-gautam-gambhirs-good-cricket-message-to-bangladesh-ahead-of-india-tests-759802">'What they did in Pakistan...,' Gautam Gambhir's 'good cricket' message to Bangladesh ahead of India Tests</a></p>

<p>"But when the opposition team comes to India and if the Test match gets over in two and a half days, we keep saying that there is too much help for the spinners,” he said.</p>

<p>Gambhir also asserted that nobody can prepare a wicket with a guarantee that the Test will go on for five days.</p>

<p>"If there is too much help for the fast bowler, then no one talks about it. So, I think we have to be fair and clear on that front. I don't think anywhere in the world where you can prepare a wicket where you say that this Test will go on for five days.</p>

<p>"You got to have quality if you need a good Test. But you should be able to play against spin on a turning track and you should be able to play good fast bowling on a green track," Gambhir added.</p>

<p>"So, I think this conversation or debate should end where people say that in India, when Test matches get over in two and a half days, it's too much support for spinners. The opposition needs to learn how to play against spinners rather than talk about changing the nature of the pitch," concluded the head coach.</p>

<p>India, who are currently at the top of the WTC 2023-25 cycle points table, have a bumper Test season ahead of them.</p>

<p>The Rohit Sharma-led side set to host New Zealand after the two Tests against Bangladesh. India then travel to Australia for the highly-anticipated five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November, where they aim to win a Test series for the third consecutive time.</p>


India coach Gautam Gambhir has asked for debate on Indian pitches to end ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh which starts September 19 in Chennai. Gambhir made the remarks while talking at the pre-game match conference.

India coach Gautam Gambhir has asked for debate on Indian pitches to end ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh which starts September 19 in Chennai. Gambhir made the remarks while talking at the pre-game match conference. "The thing is when you go to places like Australia, England, South Africa, the Test gets over in two and a half days, then there is not so much talk. Also Read: 'What they did in Pakistan...,' Gautam Gambhir's 'good cricket' message to Bangladesh ahead of India Tests "But when the opposition team comes to India and if the Test match gets over in two and a half days, we keep saying that there is too much help for the spinners,” he said. Gambhir also asserted that nobody can prepare a wicket with a guarantee that the Test will go on for five days. "If there is too much help for the fast bowler, then no one talks about it. So, I think we have to be fair and clear on that front. I don't think anywhere in the world where you can prepare a wicket where you say that this Test will go on for five days. "You got to have quality if you need a good Test. But you should be able to play against spin on a turning track and you should be able to play good fast bowling on a green track," Gambhir added. "So, I think this conversation or debate should end where people say that in India, when Test matches get over in two and a half days, it's too much support for spinners. The opposition needs to learn how to play against spinners rather than talk about changing the nature of the pitch," concluded the head coach. India, who are currently at the top of the WTC 2023-25 cycle points table, have a bumper Test season ahead of them. The Rohit Sharma-led side set to host New Zealand after the two Tests against Bangladesh. India then travel to Australia for the highly-anticipated five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November, where they aim to win a Test series for the third consecutive time.

'Support for spinners...,'  India coach Gautam Gambhir on pitch debate ahead of upcoming Tests

<p>India coach Gautam Gambhir congratulated Bangladesh for their recent 2-0 Test series win against Pakistan but asserted that the upcoming series against India is a new one. The comments came ahead of the first Test between the two sides which starts on September 19 in Chennai.</p>

<p>"I Congratulate them for what they did in Pakistan. But this is a new series and they are a quality side and we want to play good cricket. Yes they have experience in Shakib, Mushfiqur and Mehidy but we want to be switched on from the first ball," said Gambhir while talking to the reporters ahead of the first Test of the two-match series.</p>

<p>"I have been big believer that we don't fear anyone but we respect everyone. It is the same with Bangladesh. We don't look at the opposition and play the game we know," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/our-aim-here-india-skipper-rohit-puts-aside-bangladeshs-extra-confidence-talk-ahead-of-test-series-759494">'Our&nbsp;aim here...,' India skipper Rohit puts aside Bangladesh's 'extra confidence' talk ahead of Test series</a></p>

<p>Gambhir also lauded pacer Jasprit Bumrah and spin duo Ravi Ashwin and&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja for changing the perception of India as a batting-obsessed nation.</p>

<p>"Jasprit Bumrah is the best fast bowler in the world, across formats. It's great to have Bumrah in the dressing room, someone who can change the game at any point of time," Gambhir said.</p>

<p>"India is a batting-obsessed nation. But Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are changing that. Bumrah is smart in Test cricket. It is good these guys are changing the trend," the coach added.</p>

<p>India have a bumper Test season coming up with the Rohit Sharma-led side set to host New Zealand after the two Tests against Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India then travel to Australia for the highly-anticipated five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November, where they aim to win a Test series for the third consecutive time.</p>

<p>India last lost to Australia in a Test series in 2014, which was played in Australia. Since then, India have won all four series played between the two countries, two in India and two in Australia.</p>


India coach Gautam Gambhir congratulated Bangladesh for their recent 2-0 Test series win against Pakistan but asserted that the upcoming series against India is a new one.

India coach Gautam Gambhir congratulated Bangladesh for their recent 2-0 Test series win against Pakistan but asserted that the upcoming series against India is a new one. The comments came ahead of the first Test between the two sides which starts on September 19 in Chennai. "I Congratulate them for what they did in Pakistan. But this is a new series and they are a quality side and we want to play good cricket. Yes they have experience in Shakib, Mushfiqur and Mehidy but we want to be switched on from the first ball," said Gambhir while talking to the reporters ahead of the first Test of the two-match series. "I have been big believer that we don't fear anyone but we respect everyone. It is the same with Bangladesh. We don't look at the opposition and play the game we know," he added. Also Read: 'Our aim here...,' India skipper Rohit puts aside Bangladesh's 'extra confidence' talk ahead of Test series Gambhir also lauded pacer Jasprit Bumrah and spin duo Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for changing the perception of India as a batting-obsessed nation. "Jasprit Bumrah is the best fast bowler in the world, across formats. It's great to have Bumrah in the dressing room, someone who can change the game at any point of time," Gambhir said. "India is a batting-obsessed nation. But Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are changing that. Bumrah is smart in Test cricket. It is good these guys are changing the trend," the coach added. India have a bumper Test season coming up with the Rohit Sharma-led side set to host New Zealand after the two Tests against Bangladesh. India then travel to Australia for the highly-anticipated five-Test Border-Gavaskar series in November, where they aim to win a Test series for the third consecutive time. India last lost to Australia in a Test series in 2014, which was played in Australia. Since then, India have won all four series played between the two countries, two in India and two in Australia.

'What they did in Pakistan...,' Gautam Gambhir's 'good cricket' message to Bangladesh ahead of India Tests

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as&nbsp;R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are&nbsp;Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-we-see-him-again-yash-dayal-recalls-feeling-bad-for-dismissing-ms-dhoni-in-rcb-vs-csk-ipl-2024-tie-759749">Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it."</p>

<p>The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September&nbsp;19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury.</p>

<p><strong>India&nbsp;Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>

<p>India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.</p>


India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances. In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well." Also read: Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it." The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September 19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury. India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal. India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.

Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir

<p>With less than 24 hours to go before the start of the first Test match against Bangladesh, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir were seen engaged in a funny banter. Speaking to the Board of Control for Cricket India’s (BCCI) social media channel, the duo rolled back memories from their playing days. However, it was Gambhir’s funny jibe at Virat that caught the attention of the netizens.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Very Special Interview 🙌<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for a deep insight on how great cricketing minds operate. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s Head Coach <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> come together in a never-seen-before freewheeling chat.<br />
<br />
You do not want to miss this! Shortly on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz">https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz</a> <a href="https://t.co/dQ21iOPoLy">pic.twitter.com/dQ21iOPoLy</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1836246277429854714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Gambhir counters Kohli</strong></h2>

<p>"When you're batting and you have a bit of a chat with the opposition, did you ever feel like this might carry on to you going out of the zone and potentially getting out, or did it put you in a more motivated space?" Kohli inquired.</p>

<p>"You had more altercations than I have. You can answer that question better than I can,” Gambhir countered Kohli on being inquired.</p>

<p>The duo of Gambhir-Kohli will work together for the first time in the Test format from the Bangladesh series which starts on Thursday (Sep 19). The contest in Chennai will be vital for India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final run. Both Kohli and Gambhir shared dressing rooms during the latter’s playing days and have also clashed occasionally during the Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>Famously the duo had a heated altercation during the IPL 2023 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/liverpool-fan-dies-in-road-accident-before-ac-milan-clash-confirms-club-759606">Liverpool fan dies in road accident before AC Milan clash, confirms club</a></strong></p>

<p>India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. According to reports, a BCCI official confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon.</p>

<h2><strong>India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series:</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>


With less than 24 hours to go before the start of the first Test match against Bangladesh, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir were seen engaged in a funny banter. Speaking to the Board of Control for Cricket India’s (BCCI) social media channel, the duo rolled back memories from their playing days.

With less than 24 hours to go before the start of the first Test match against Bangladesh, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir were seen engaged in a funny banter. Speaking to the Board of Control for Cricket India’s (BCCI) social media channel, the duo rolled back memories from their playing days. However, it was Gambhir’s funny jibe at Virat that caught the attention of the netizens. A Very Special Interview 🙌 Stay tuned for a deep insight on how great cricketing minds operate. #TeamIndia’s Head Coach @GautamGambhir and @imVkohli come together in a never-seen-before freewheeling chat. You do not want to miss this! Shortly on https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz pic.twitter.com/dQ21iOPoLy — BCCI (@BCCI) September 18, 2024 × Gambhir counters Kohli "When you're batting and you have a bit of a chat with the opposition, did you ever feel like this might carry on to you going out of the zone and potentially getting out, or did it put you in a more motivated space?" Kohli inquired. "You had more altercations than I have. You can answer that question better than I can,” Gambhir countered Kohli on being inquired. The duo of Gambhir-Kohli will work together for the first time in the Test format from the Bangladesh series which starts on Thursday (Sep 19). The contest in Chennai will be vital for India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final run. Both Kohli and Gambhir shared dressing rooms during the latter’s playing days and have also clashed occasionally during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Famously the duo had a heated altercation during the IPL 2023 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants. ALSO READ | Liverpool fan dies in road accident before AC Milan clash, confirms club India are set to return to Test action after March when they beat England 4-1 in the five-match series. According to reports, a BCCI official confirmed that KL Rahul is all set to get the nod in the Playing XI ahead of Sarfaraz Khan. The duo is battling for a spot in the middle-order as India prepare for a crunch next few months in red-ball format with the Australia tour also on the horizon. India’s squad for the 1st Test of the Bangladesh Test series: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

WATCH: Gautam Gambhir counters Virat Kohli ahead of Ban series, says 'you had more altercations than me'

<p>Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations.</p>

<p>However, his former Delhi teammate and now a well-renowned commentator, Aakash Chopra, revealed an instance when Gambhir got into an altercation with a truck driver early into his career, leading to Gambhir climbing up the truck and grabbing his collar.</p>

<p>In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Aakash recalled this one intriguing anecdote where Gambhir took matters into his own hands and went after a truck driver after he abused him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/warne-is-the-greatest-ever-to-play-under-his-shadow-is-privilege-says-veteran-spinner-nathan-lyon-759021">‘Warne is the greatest ever, to play under his shadow is privilege’, says veteran spinner Nathan Lyon</a></strong></p>

<p>Starting by calling him passionate about what he does, Aakash soon jumped onto revealing what happened on the Delhi roads one day when Gambhir lost his cool.</p>

<p>"Passionate guy. Very hardworking when it comes to his craft. A bit serious but scored a lot of runs. He always wore his heart on the sleeve. Temperament-wise, he can be very short-fused. But everyone has a different character.</p>

<p>"Gautam is someone who once fought with a truck driver in Delhi. He got out of his car and climbed the truck to grab the collar of the driver because he made a wrong turn and was abusing. I was like, ‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ So that's made him Gautam," Chopra said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>When Virat and Gautam fought on field</h2>

<p>The two best Indian batters since 2000, Gautam and Virat, belong to Delhi and, surprisingly, have a history of getting involved in verbal volleys on the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the first recorded instance came during the 2013 IPL edition, when Kohli (playing for RCB) and Gambhir (KKR’s captain) had a go at each other, only for others to interfere and separate them immediately, the second came most recently during the 2022 edition, when both got into a heated argument.</p>

<p>Although both have maintained peace with that since Gambhir recently replaced Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach. He began his three-and-a-half-year stint with the away Sri Lanka series, where India won the T20Is but lost the ODIs for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gautam is overseeing the Indian Test squad, assembled in Chennai, the venue for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19. Kanpur will cap off the two-match Test series with the second Test beginning September 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli and Gambhir were snapped having discussions in the training.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations.

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations. However, his former Delhi teammate and now a well-renowned commentator, Aakash Chopra, revealed an instance when Gambhir got into an altercation with a truck driver early into his career, leading to Gambhir climbing up the truck and grabbing his collar. In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Aakash recalled this one intriguing anecdote where Gambhir took matters into his own hands and went after a truck driver after he abused him. ALSO READ: ‘Warne is the greatest ever, to play under his shadow is privilege’, says veteran spinner Nathan Lyon Starting by calling him passionate about what he does, Aakash soon jumped onto revealing what happened on the Delhi roads one day when Gambhir lost his cool. "Passionate guy. Very hardworking when it comes to his craft. A bit serious but scored a lot of runs. He always wore his heart on the sleeve. Temperament-wise, he can be very short-fused. But everyone has a different character. "Gautam is someone who once fought with a truck driver in Delhi. He got out of his car and climbed the truck to grab the collar of the driver because he made a wrong turn and was abusing. I was like, ‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ So that's made him Gautam," Chopra said. When Virat and Gautam fought on field The two best Indian batters since 2000, Gautam and Virat, belong to Delhi and, surprisingly, have a history of getting involved in verbal volleys on the ground. While the first recorded instance came during the 2013 IPL edition, when Kohli (playing for RCB) and Gambhir (KKR’s captain) had a go at each other, only for others to interfere and separate them immediately, the second came most recently during the 2022 edition, when both got into a heated argument. Although both have maintained peace with that since Gambhir recently replaced Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach. He began his three-and-a-half-year stint with the away Sri Lanka series, where India won the T20Is but lost the ODIs for the first time since 1997. Meanwhile, Gautam is overseeing the Indian Test squad, assembled in Chennai, the venue for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19. Kanpur will cap off the two-match Test series with the second Test beginning September 27. Kohli and Gambhir were snapped having discussions in the training. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ – Aakash Chopra shares anecdote when Gambhir grabbed truck driver’s collar

<p>Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before. Moreover, he even named his daughter India.</p>

<p>Rhodes worked with Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before Gautam returned to his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, ahead of the last season, which they won.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-v-aus-2024-2nd-t20i-liam-livingstone-stars-in-englands-series-leveling-win-in-cardiff-758591">ENG v AUS 2024, 2nd T20I: Liam Livingstone stars in England’s series-leveling win in Cardiff</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, before accepting Team India’s head coach role, Gambhir reportedly put out a few conditions, which included having the backroom staff of his choice. Though the BCCI accepted most of his conditions, with Gambhir bringing in Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Abhishek Nayar and Ryan Ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, they retained T Dilip as the bowling coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>T Dilip was India’s fielding coach under Rahul Dravid, with BCCI preferring to retain an Indian coach for the said position.</p>

<p>However, Rhodes, who now resides in Goa, detailed how he felt about missing out on the coveted job.</p>

<p>“Yeah! Can you believe it? I mean, they didn't want an international coach, and I'm so local. I mean, mera naam Jonty Rhodes! (I'm Jonty Rhodes) Come on. I'm based in Goa. Maybe because I'm based in Goa. Maybe I need to be in a metro (city),” the South African said during a podcast on Aleena Dissects YouTube channel.</p>

<h2>Rhodes on Team India’s fielding standards</h2>

<p>Rhodes has been following Indian cricket closely for the longest time, and upon being asked what he thinks of the team’s fielding standards, he said under two captains – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue have maintained fitness and fielding standards, something he’s proud of.</p>

<p>“I've taken my hats off to the last two Indian fielding coaches. And it comes from captaincy. Under Dhoni… he had a lot of senior guys, and he just showed his physical ability, he still does at the end of his IPL career. Running between the wickets.... amazing, and he's 40. It's incredible. He certainly showed, just through his example, the importance of fitness and strength,” said Rhodes.</p>

<p>“Then Virat Kohli took over, and it was a part of the selection criteria. If you don't pass the fitness standards, it doesn't matter how good you are. Everybody was treated equally, and it took India to becoming a good fielding team,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir, with his new-look backroom staff and the Test Team, assembled in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13), beginning the preparations for the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kanpur will host the second Test&nbsp;September 27 onwards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before.

Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before. Moreover, he even named his daughter India. Rhodes worked with Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before Gautam returned to his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, ahead of the last season, which they won. ALSO READ: ENG v AUS 2024, 2nd T20I: Liam Livingstone stars in England’s series-leveling win in Cardiff Meanwhile, before accepting Team India’s head coach role, Gambhir reportedly put out a few conditions, which included having the backroom staff of his choice. Though the BCCI accepted most of his conditions, with Gambhir bringing in Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Abhishek Nayar and Ryan Ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, they retained T Dilip as the bowling coach. T Dilip was India’s fielding coach under Rahul Dravid, with BCCI preferring to retain an Indian coach for the said position. However, Rhodes, who now resides in Goa, detailed how he felt about missing out on the coveted job. “Yeah! Can you believe it? I mean, they didn't want an international coach, and I'm so local. I mean, mera naam Jonty Rhodes! (I'm Jonty Rhodes) Come on. I'm based in Goa. Maybe because I'm based in Goa. Maybe I need to be in a metro (city),” the South African said during a podcast on Aleena Dissects YouTube channel. Rhodes on Team India’s fielding standards Rhodes has been following Indian cricket closely for the longest time, and upon being asked what he thinks of the team’s fielding standards, he said under two captains – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue have maintained fitness and fielding standards, something he’s proud of. “I've taken my hats off to the last two Indian fielding coaches. And it comes from captaincy. Under Dhoni… he had a lot of senior guys, and he just showed his physical ability, he still does at the end of his IPL career. Running between the wickets.... amazing, and he's 40. It's incredible. He certainly showed, just through his example, the importance of fitness and strength,” said Rhodes. “Then Virat Kohli took over, and it was a part of the selection criteria. If you don't pass the fitness standards, it doesn't matter how good you are. Everybody was treated equally, and it took India to becoming a good fielding team,” he added. Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir, with his new-look backroom staff and the Test Team, assembled in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13), beginning the preparations for the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai. Kanpur will host the second Test September 27 onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Jonty Rhodes ‘surprised’ for being overlooked for India’s fielding coach role despite Gambhir’s backing

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - the IPL 2024 winners, mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as the new team mentor. Following switching bases from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to KKR ahead of the last season, Gambhir was instrumental in helping the team lift the trophy for the third time.</p>

<p>However, soon after tasting success with the franchise he captained before, Gautam took over the Team India head coach role, replacing Rahul Dravid.</p>

<p>Though his role runs until December 2027, Gambhir taking along Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, who was also part of KKR’s backroom staff, is a bigger issue to resolve for the franchise. With Chandrakant Pandit continuing as KKR’s head coach, they seek a new mentor.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-tests-bound-akash-deep-credits-mohammed-shami-for-duleep-trophy-first-round-success-757019">Bangladesh Tests-bound Akash Deep credits Mohammed Shami for Duleep Trophy first-round success</a></strong></p>

<p>Per a report in the Hindustan Times, KKR is mulling over bringing their former two-time IPL champion Kallis back into the coaching staff. Kallis, regarded as the greatest modern-day all-rounder, played for a few seasons for KKR before being appointed as their mentor in 2015 and head coach in 2016, replacing Trevor Bayliss.</p>

<p>Besides, the other contenders KKR is considering are former Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting and Rajasthan Royals’ Director of Operations Kumar Sangakkara.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ponting left his job as DC head coach following IPL 2024, while Sangakkara’s RR appointed Rahul Dravid as their new head coach. Ponting, however, expressed his interest in coaching an IPL franchise sooner.</p>

<h2>BCCI yet to release revised IPL auction rules</h2>

<p>Following a high-profile meeting that included owners and stakeholders of all ten IPL teams, where everyone shared their thoughts on the retention list and Right to Match (RTM) card, the BCCI has yet to release the revised rules.</p>

<p>Per the previous rules exercised during the last mega auction in 2022, each team had four retentions, with the IPL council and BCCI removing the RTM card then.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, ahead of the next mega auction, scheduled for December 2024,&nbsp;the ones&nbsp;having their bases set and tasted success have pushed for more retentions, somewhere around six or seven, while others have opted for no retentions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the board might not consider this idea, the BCCI might settle around three or four retentions, excluding an RTM card.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BCCI could make the verdict public anytime soon. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - the IPL 2024 winners, mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as the new team mentor. Following switching bases from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to KKR ahead of the last season, Gambhir was instrumental in helping the team lift the trophy for the third time.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - the IPL 2024 winners, mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as the new team mentor. Following switching bases from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to KKR ahead of the last season, Gambhir was instrumental in helping the team lift the trophy for the third time. However, soon after tasting success with the franchise he captained before, Gautam took over the Team India head coach role, replacing Rahul Dravid. Though his role runs until December 2027, Gambhir taking along Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, who was also part of KKR’s backroom staff, is a bigger issue to resolve for the franchise. With Chandrakant Pandit continuing as KKR’s head coach, they seek a new mentor. ALSO READ: Bangladesh Tests-bound Akash Deep credits Mohammed Shami for Duleep Trophy first-round success Per a report in the Hindustan Times, KKR is mulling over bringing their former two-time IPL champion Kallis back into the coaching staff. Kallis, regarded as the greatest modern-day all-rounder, played for a few seasons for KKR before being appointed as their mentor in 2015 and head coach in 2016, replacing Trevor Bayliss. Besides, the other contenders KKR is considering are former Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting and Rajasthan Royals’ Director of Operations Kumar Sangakkara. Ponting left his job as DC head coach following IPL 2024, while Sangakkara’s RR appointed Rahul Dravid as their new head coach. Ponting, however, expressed his interest in coaching an IPL franchise sooner. BCCI yet to release revised IPL auction rules Following a high-profile meeting that included owners and stakeholders of all ten IPL teams, where everyone shared their thoughts on the retention list and Right to Match (RTM) card, the BCCI has yet to release the revised rules. Per the previous rules exercised during the last mega auction in 2022, each team had four retentions, with the IPL council and BCCI removing the RTM card then. However, ahead of the next mega auction, scheduled for December 2024, the ones having their bases set and tasted success have pushed for more retentions, somewhere around six or seven, while others have opted for no retentions. Though the board might not consider this idea, the BCCI might settle around three or four retentions, excluding an RTM card. The BCCI could make the verdict public anytime soon. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL: KKR mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as team mentor – Reports

<p>Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the&nbsp;decision on the face."&nbsp;Kaneria made the remarks after Pakistan's recent 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why today other teams are doing so well? Why is the Indian team doing so well? They had a Rahul Dravid who worked with the team very well now they have Gautam Gambhir, a fantastic cricketer and fantastic guy. The way he reacts, he tells on the face. He doesn't go back and do backbiting; he's on the face straight away. This is how you have to be. You have to be strong, and like a strong person, you have to make the decision on the face, not at the back,” said Kaneria while talking to news outlet Republic TV.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/much-information-out-aussie-all-rounder-cameron-green-warns-india-ahead-of-upcoming-test-series-756677">'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series</a></p>

<p>There are reports doing&nbsp;rounds which suggest that Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam may be removed amid the rut of form. Babar was recently handed the captaincy back after being sacked in the aftermath of the 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis.</p>

<p>“Everything is taken for granted; that's why the downfall of Pakistan cricket has gone through making captains, changing captain. That will not work. Stick to your captain stick with him," Kaneria said.</p>

<p>"Okay, I have made him the captain for one year. I will ask him. I will ask him to give me an answer after one year. Nobody will touch him you have full support from me, but you need to perform. If you don't perform, you go out, so that's the thing you have to make tough decisions. Why, if you don't make tough decisions, things will not work," he added.</p>

<p>Pakistan Test skipper Shan Masood's position is also under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Their next Test assignment is a home Test series against England.</p>


Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the decision on the face.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels that Pakistan cricket needs to learn from India coach Gautam Gambhir to be strong and "make the decision on the face." Kaneria made the remarks after Pakistan's recent 0-2 Test series loss against Bangladesh at home. "Why today other teams are doing so well? Why is the Indian team doing so well? They had a Rahul Dravid who worked with the team very well now they have Gautam Gambhir, a fantastic cricketer and fantastic guy. The way he reacts, he tells on the face. He doesn't go back and do backbiting; he's on the face straight away. This is how you have to be. You have to be strong, and like a strong person, you have to make the decision on the face, not at the back,” said Kaneria while talking to news outlet Republic TV. Also Read: 'Much information out...,' Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green warns India ahead of upcoming Test series There are reports doing rounds which suggest that Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam may be removed amid the rut of form. Babar was recently handed the captaincy back after being sacked in the aftermath of the 2023 ODI World Cup where Pakistan failed to make it to the semis. “Everything is taken for granted; that's why the downfall of Pakistan cricket has gone through making captains, changing captain. That will not work. Stick to your captain stick with him," Kaneria said. "Okay, I have made him the captain for one year. I will ask him. I will ask him to give me an answer after one year. Nobody will touch him you have full support from me, but you need to perform. If you don't perform, you go out, so that's the thing you have to make tough decisions. Why, if you don't make tough decisions, things will not work," he added. Pakistan Test skipper Shan Masood's position is also under scrutiny after successive whitewash against Australia in Australia and against Bangladesh at home. Their next Test assignment is a home Test series against England.

'Make the decision on...,' Ex-spinner Danish Kaneria wants Pakistan cricket to learn from India coach Gambhir

<p>Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans&nbsp;in the&nbsp;T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0. Ahead of the ongoing Duleep Trophy, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant -- who is representing India B in the domestic tournament -- spoke on the difference in working styles of former coach Dravid and his successor Gambhir.</p>

<h2><strong>'Dravid was very balanced, Gambhir is one-sided about the fact that you've to win'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on JioCinema, Pant said, "I feel Rahul bhai was very balanced as a human being and as a coach. It could be both good and bad. There are positives and negatives, and it depends on where individuals want to focus. Gauti bhai (Gambhir) is more aggressive, he's very one-sided about the fact that you have to win. But you need to find the right balance and improve."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-realises-bangladesh-threat-says-cannot-afford-to-underestimate-any-team-756170">Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team'</a></strong></p>

<p>Under Gambhir, India got off to a mediocre start but will look to make amends in their forthcoming home season, where they host Bangladesh for two Tests and New Zealand in a&nbsp;three-match Test series later. Soon after, India's litmus test will begin when they travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, i.e. the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on Nov 22. It will be the biggest challenge for Gambhir since taking over as India's head coach.</p>

<p>Talking about Dravid, he took over as the India coach in late 2021 and served until the end of the 2024 T20 WC. He was initially set to end his term after the home ODI WC last year, however, he received a six-month extension. It proved to be a masterstroke as Dravid helped Rohit Sharma-led India end their 11-year-long ICC-title drought in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and USA.</p>


Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans in the T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0.

Post the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Rahul Dravid's coaching tenure came to an end and he was succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. Under Gambhir, India's first assignment was a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka where the Men in Blue whitewashed the Lankans in the T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs 2-0. Ahead of the ongoing Duleep Trophy, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant -- who is representing India B in the domestic tournament -- spoke on the difference in working styles of former coach Dravid and his successor Gambhir. 'Dravid was very balanced, Gambhir is one-sided about the fact that you've to win' Speaking on JioCinema, Pant said, "I feel Rahul bhai was very balanced as a human being and as a coach. It could be both good and bad. There are positives and negatives, and it depends on where individuals want to focus. Gauti bhai (Gambhir) is more aggressive, he's very one-sided about the fact that you have to win. But you need to find the right balance and improve." Also read: Rishabh Pant realises Bangladesh threat, says ‘cannot afford to underestimate any team' Under Gambhir, India got off to a mediocre start but will look to make amends in their forthcoming home season, where they host Bangladesh for two Tests and New Zealand in a three-match Test series later. Soon after, India's litmus test will begin when they travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, i.e. the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on Nov 22. It will be the biggest challenge for Gambhir since taking over as India's head coach. Talking about Dravid, he took over as the India coach in late 2021 and served until the end of the 2024 T20 WC. He was initially set to end his term after the home ODI WC last year, however, he received a six-month extension. It proved to be a masterstroke as Dravid helped Rohit Sharma-led India end their 11-year-long ICC-title drought in the T20 WC, held in West Indies and USA.

He is very one-sided...: Rishabh Pant on difference in working styles of Gautam Gambhir and Rahul Dravid

<p>Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that it'll be more challenging for players than new head coach Gautam Gambhir who recently replaced Rahul Dravid as the new India coach.</p>

<p>Dravid left the position after India's T20 World Cup triumph but Gambhir started his tenure with the Men in Blue losing an&nbsp;ODI series&nbsp;against Sri Lanka after winning T20I&nbsp;3-0.</p>

<p>"I don't think there is much challenge because there are more professionals there. Recently the players have won the T20 World&nbsp;Cup, the players know what their role is. With Gambhir's arrival, the players will get clarity that this is the role, you have to do this. So this will be a benefit to the Indian team," Sehwag said in a conversation with news outlet Amar Ujala.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-worried-for-my-job-security-captain-shan-masood-after-pakistans-humiliating-defeat-vs-bangladesh-755740">Not worried for my job security: Captain Shan Masood after Pakistan's humiliating defeat vs Bangladesh</a></p>

<p>"Gambhir's challenges will be less and the players' challenges will be more because they will feel that we have won the T20 World Cup, so now we should win the Champions Trophy or the ODI World Cup or the Test Championship. So the players will have more challenges than the coach. Because Gambhir is there to help them," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir's next assignments are all red-ball cricket series with Bangladesh touring India for a two-Test series before New Zealand tours India for three-Test series.</p>

<p>India then travels to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series down under.</p>

<p>England then travels India for a white-ball tour which consists three T20Is and and as many ODIs before India plays their first ICC tournament - the ICC Champions Trophy.</p>

<p>Pakistan is scheduled to host the ICC tournament - their first since joint hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with Sri Lanka and India - from mid February to March early next year.</p>

<p>Gambhir's rise as a coach was due to his IPL success where he took Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 2024 title in his first season as a mentor upon return. He was mentor of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) prior to that.</p>


Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that it'll be more challenging for players than new head coach Gautam Gambhir who recently replaced Rahul Dravid as the new India coach.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that it'll be more challenging for players than new head coach Gautam Gambhir who recently replaced Rahul Dravid as the new India coach. Dravid left the position after India's T20 World Cup triumph but Gambhir started his tenure with the Men in Blue losing an ODI series against Sri Lanka after winning T20I 3-0. "I don't think there is much challenge because there are more professionals there. Recently the players have won the T20 World Cup, the players know what their role is. With Gambhir's arrival, the players will get clarity that this is the role, you have to do this. So this will be a benefit to the Indian team," Sehwag said in a conversation with news outlet Amar Ujala. Also Read: Not worried for my job security: Captain Shan Masood after Pakistan's humiliating defeat vs Bangladesh "Gambhir's challenges will be less and the players' challenges will be more because they will feel that we have won the T20 World Cup, so now we should win the Champions Trophy or the ODI World Cup or the Test Championship. So the players will have more challenges than the coach. Because Gambhir is there to help them," he added. Gambhir's next assignments are all red-ball cricket series with Bangladesh touring India for a two-Test series before New Zealand tours India for three-Test series. India then travels to Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar series with an aim to win their third consecutive Test series down under. England then travels India for a white-ball tour which consists three T20Is and and as many ODIs before India plays their first ICC tournament - the ICC Champions Trophy. Pakistan is scheduled to host the ICC tournament - their first since joint hosting 1996 ODI World Cup with Sri Lanka and India - from mid February to March early next year. Gambhir's rise as a coach was due to his IPL success where he took Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 2024 title in his first season as a mentor upon return. He was mentor of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) prior to that.

'Players' challenges will be more...,' says Virender Sehwag on Gautam Gambhir as new India head coach

<p>Former India bowler Zaheer Khan has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as the new mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), as announced by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise&nbsp; on Wednesday (Aug 28). Zaheer, who represented Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during his playing stint, will take the role from IPL 2025. Having opted to keep the mentor role vacant after Gambhir’s departure before IPL 2024, LSG will look to bounce back and make it to the playoffs in the coming edition.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Zaheer, Lucknow ke dil mein aap bohot pehle se ho 🇮🇳💙 <a href="https://t.co/S5S3YHUSX0">pic.twitter.com/S5S3YHUSX0</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Zaheer succeeds GG</strong></h2>

<p>Having kept the role vacant after Gambhir’s departure in 2023, the LSG team directors decided to hire Zaheer ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auctions. He will look after the overall development&nbsp;of players and could be seen on the team’s auction table during the mega auction&nbsp;likely to take place in December. Zaheer will work with head coach Justin Langer during his stint as mentor as they aim to return to the top four of the IPL standings.</p>

<p>Gambhir served as the mentor of the side for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, having worked with them since the launch of the franchise. During his successful stint, Gambhir led LSG to back-to-back playoffs and was renowned for his aggressive nature in the middle.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/england-batter-dawid-malan-37-announces-international-retirement-754007">England batter Dawid Malan, 37, announces international retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>Zaheer has previously worked with the Mumbai Indians in a coaching capacity, having announced his retirement after IPL 2015. He is well known for his exploits with the ball in the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he helped Team India end the 28-year ODI World Cup drought. He was India’s lead wicket-taker during the World Cup with 21 scalps and was crucial for India’s success under MS Dhoni. In his Test career, he represented India in 92 Test matches and scalped 311 wickets, holding the distinction of being the second-highest wicket-taker by a pacer for India in the red-ball format.</p>


Former India bowler Zaheer Khan has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as the new mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), as announced by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise on Wednesday (Aug 28).

Former India bowler Zaheer Khan has succeeded Gautam Gambhir as the new mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), as announced by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise on Wednesday (Aug 28). Zaheer, who represented Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during his playing stint, will take the role from IPL 2025. Having opted to keep the mentor role vacant after Gambhir’s departure before IPL 2024, LSG will look to bounce back and make it to the playoffs in the coming edition. Zaheer, Lucknow ke dil mein aap bohot pehle se ho 🇮🇳💙 pic.twitter.com/S5S3YHUSX0 — Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) August 28, 2024 × Zaheer succeeds GG Having kept the role vacant after Gambhir’s departure in 2023, the LSG team directors decided to hire Zaheer ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auctions. He will look after the overall development of players and could be seen on the team’s auction table during the mega auction likely to take place in December. Zaheer will work with head coach Justin Langer during his stint as mentor as they aim to return to the top four of the IPL standings. Gambhir served as the mentor of the side for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, having worked with them since the launch of the franchise. During his successful stint, Gambhir led LSG to back-to-back playoffs and was renowned for his aggressive nature in the middle. ALSO READ | England batter Dawid Malan, 37, announces international retirement Zaheer has previously worked with the Mumbai Indians in a coaching capacity, having announced his retirement after IPL 2015. He is well known for his exploits with the ball in the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he helped Team India end the 28-year ODI World Cup drought. He was India’s lead wicket-taker during the World Cup with 21 scalps and was crucial for India’s success under MS Dhoni. In his Test career, he represented India in 92 Test matches and scalped 311 wickets, holding the distinction of being the second-highest wicket-taker by a pacer for India in the red-ball format.

IPL: Former India bowler Zaheer Khan succeeds Gautam Gambhir as new mentor for Lucknow Super Giants

<p>India batter Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on Saturday (June 24) as one of the finest openers especially in limited overs. India coach Gautam Gambhir posted a heartfelt message of the batter on social media platform X.</p>

<p>"Congratulations Shiki on a fantastic career! I know you will spread the same joy through everything you take up in the future!," wrote Gambhir.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-issues-public-apology-for-omitting-ms-dhoni-from-his-all-time-india-xi-calls-it-a-blunder-752946">Dinesh Karthik issues public apology for omitting MS Dhoni from his all-time India XI</a></p>

<p>It is to be noted that both Gambhir and Dhawan played domestic cricket for Delhi with Gambhir being the senior player.</p>

<p>Dhawan made his India debut in 2010 during an ODI against Australia and went on to play 167 matches, scoring 6,793 runs at an average of 44 with 17 hundreds and 39 fifties.</p>

<p>He made a formidable partnership with Rohit Sharma at the top and the duo had 18 centuries stands for India in ODIs - the second most after Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar. They also added 5,148 runs as a pair - the fourth most in the history.</p>

<p>In Tests, Dhawan arrived in style - hitting the fastest ton on debut three years after his ODI debut - in 2013 against Australia. The left-hander played his last game in India jersey back in 2022 against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>“I always had one goal in mind that was to play for India and I achieved it thanks to a lot of people. First of all my family, my childhood coach Tarak Sinha and Madan Sharma, under their guidance, I learnt cricket. Then my entire team with whom I played for years, got another family, fame and everyone’s love and support. As it’s said that to move ahead in the story you need to flip over the pages. Hence, I’m also doing that, I’m announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket," said Dhawan in the video.</p>


India batter Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on Saturday (June 24) as one of the finest openers especially in limited overs.

India batter Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on Saturday (June 24) as one of the finest openers especially in limited overs. India coach Gautam Gambhir posted a heartfelt message of the batter on social media platform X. "Congratulations Shiki on a fantastic career! I know you will spread the same joy through everything you take up in the future!," wrote Gambhir. Also Read: Dinesh Karthik issues public apology for omitting MS Dhoni from his all-time India XI It is to be noted that both Gambhir and Dhawan played domestic cricket for Delhi with Gambhir being the senior player. Dhawan made his India debut in 2010 during an ODI against Australia and went on to play 167 matches, scoring 6,793 runs at an average of 44 with 17 hundreds and 39 fifties. He made a formidable partnership with Rohit Sharma at the top and the duo had 18 centuries stands for India in ODIs - the second most after Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar. They also added 5,148 runs as a pair - the fourth most in the history. In Tests, Dhawan arrived in style - hitting the fastest ton on debut three years after his ODI debut - in 2013 against Australia. The left-hander played his last game in India jersey back in 2022 against Bangladesh. “I always had one goal in mind that was to play for India and I achieved it thanks to a lot of people. First of all my family, my childhood coach Tarak Sinha and Madan Sharma, under their guidance, I learnt cricket. Then my entire team with whom I played for years, got another family, fame and everyone’s love and support. As it’s said that to move ahead in the story you need to flip over the pages. Hence, I’m also doing that, I’m announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket," said Dhawan in the video.

'You take up...,' India coach Gautam Gambhir shares heartfelt post for Shikhar Dhawan on retirement

<p>Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan is in negotiations with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the mentor's role. The northern IPL franchise, who came into the scene in 2022, has been without a mentor since Gautam Gambhir left the position vacant ahead of IPL 2024, to become&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s mentor. Thus, LSG is looking for Gambhir's successor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the talks materalise, Zaheer -- the ODI World Cup winner -- could become Lucknow's mentor and also provide his expertise to the bowlers. Morne Morkel, LSG's bowling coach, also vacated the post recently after being roped in as India's bowling coach on newly-appointed head coach Gambhir's recommendation. If Zaheer comes into the picture,&nbsp;the veteran will&nbsp;be a key interlocutor&nbsp;for players and the management of the franchise.</p>

<p>Interestingly, Zaheer's name had cropped up as a likely candidate to become India's next bowling coach after the resignation of the Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff. However, Morkel pipped the former Indian speedster. The South African will join the Indian squad ahead of their home Tests versus Bangladesh, starting Sep 19.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-pak-batter-dismisses-this-india-stars-comeback-till-2025-champions-trophy-says-focus-on-ipl-2025-751344">Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025'</a></strong></p>

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<p>In the Lucknow&nbsp;setup, Zaheer will collaborate with head coach Justin Langer and join a strong team of coaches, including Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes, etc. In addition,&nbsp;there are&nbsp;talks of another prominent coach joining the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise. Nonetheless, the details are&nbsp;not fully clear.</p>

<p>Zaheer represented India in&nbsp;92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, accounting for 311, 282 and 17 wickets, respectively. In addition, he played 100 IPL games, representing many franchises such as Mumbai Indians (MI), Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), etc. Currently, the India great is&nbsp;the Global Head of Cricket Development at the MI camp since 2022.</p>
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Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan is in negotiations with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the mentor's role. The northern IPL franchise, who came into the scene in 2022, has been without a mentor since Gautam Gambhir left the position vacant ahead of IPL 2024, to become Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s mentor.

Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan is in negotiations with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the mentor's role. The northern IPL franchise, who came into the scene in 2022, has been without a mentor since Gautam Gambhir left the position vacant ahead of IPL 2024, to become Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s mentor. Thus, LSG is looking for Gambhir's successor. If the talks materalise, Zaheer -- the ODI World Cup winner -- could become Lucknow's mentor and also provide his expertise to the bowlers. Morne Morkel, LSG's bowling coach, also vacated the post recently after being roped in as India's bowling coach on newly-appointed head coach Gambhir's recommendation. If Zaheer comes into the picture, the veteran will be a key interlocutor for players and the management of the franchise. Interestingly, Zaheer's name had cropped up as a likely candidate to become India's next bowling coach after the resignation of the Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff. However, Morkel pipped the former Indian speedster. The South African will join the Indian squad ahead of their home Tests versus Bangladesh, starting Sep 19. Also read: Former Pak batter dismisses THIS India star's comeback till 2025 Champions Trophy, says 'focus on IPL 2025' In the Lucknow setup, Zaheer will collaborate with head coach Justin Langer and join a strong team of coaches, including Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes, etc. In addition, there are talks of another prominent coach joining the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise. Nonetheless, the details are not fully clear. Zaheer represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, accounting for 311, 282 and 17 wickets, respectively. In addition, he played 100 IPL games, representing many franchises such as Mumbai Indians (MI), Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), etc. Currently, the India great is the Global Head of Cricket Development at the MI camp since 2022.

IPL 2025: LSG in talks with THIS Indian World Cup winner for mentor role

<p>Newly-appointed India head coach Gautam Gambhir was keen on having former South Africa seamer Morne Morkel as part of his backroom staff with BCCI, after a slight hesitation, granting Gautam his wish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Morkel’s appointment, the netizens quickly brought Gautam’s not-so-old video, which he only posted on his Instagram handle, to everyone’s notice, wherein he commented on BCCI's policy of appointing foreign coaches, saying they take money and vanish.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Morkel has joined assistant coaches Ryan ten Doeschate and Abhishek Nayar and fielding mentor T Dilip as part of Gambhir’s backroom staff.</p>

<h2><strong>When Gambhir took on BCCI’s tactics</strong></h2>

<p>Duncan Fletcher - the former England coach, was the last foreign coach of the Indian Team, with the BCCI picking Indians as the top bosses since.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-struggling-with-my-anxiety-i-have-nightmares-flashbacks-flintoff-recalls-horrific-road-crash-750614">‘I am struggling with my anxiety, I have nightmares, flashbacks’ – Flintoff recalls horrific road crash</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking during an event in 2022, Gambhir was vocal about his thoughts against BCCI's policy of appointing foreign coaches, saying there are so many options within the Indian circuit for the board to choose from.</p>

<p>He added that the Indian fans end up giving too much importance to these overseas coaches, and they eventually vanish after earning buckets.</p>

<p>“One really good thing that has happened in Indian cricket in the past six or seven years is that Indians have started coaching the Indian cricket team. I am a very strong believer in this. Indians should coach the Indian cricket team. All these foreign coaches, whom we end up giving a lot of importance to, they only come here, they make money, and they vanish,” Gambhir said during an interview.</p>

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<h3><strong>Morkel and Gambhir’s partnership</strong></h3>

<p>Morkel and Gambhir have a rich history of sharing the dressing room. Both were part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) backroom staff for&nbsp;two seasons in the IPL, where Gautam served as the mentor and Morkel as the bowling coach.&nbsp;The two stalwarts have also played together for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for three seasons.</p>

<p>While Team India's head coach role is Gambhir’s first international coaching assignment, Morne served as the bowling coach of Pakistan during the 2023 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gautam began his tenure with the away Sri Lanka series, where the Men in Blue won the T20Is (3-0) but suffered a shocking ODI series loss (1-2). However, Morkel’s first assignment will be the two-match Test series against Bangladesh in Chennai on September 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Newly-appointed India head coach Gautam Gambhir was keen on having former South Africa seamer Morne Morkel as part of his backroom staff with BCCI, after a slight hesitation, granting Gautam his wish.

Newly-appointed India head coach Gautam Gambhir was keen on having former South Africa seamer Morne Morkel as part of his backroom staff with BCCI, after a slight hesitation, granting Gautam his wish. With Morkel’s appointment, the netizens quickly brought Gautam’s not-so-old video, which he only posted on his Instagram handle, to everyone’s notice, wherein he commented on BCCI's policy of appointing foreign coaches, saying they take money and vanish. Meanwhile, Morkel has joined assistant coaches Ryan ten Doeschate and Abhishek Nayar and fielding mentor T Dilip as part of Gambhir’s backroom staff. When Gambhir took on BCCI’s tactics Duncan Fletcher - the former England coach, was the last foreign coach of the Indian Team, with the BCCI picking Indians as the top bosses since. ALSO READ: ‘I am struggling with my anxiety, I have nightmares, flashbacks’ – Flintoff recalls horrific road crash Speaking during an event in 2022, Gambhir was vocal about his thoughts against BCCI's policy of appointing foreign coaches, saying there are so many options within the Indian circuit for the board to choose from. He added that the Indian fans end up giving too much importance to these overseas coaches, and they eventually vanish after earning buckets. “One really good thing that has happened in Indian cricket in the past six or seven years is that Indians have started coaching the Indian cricket team. I am a very strong believer in this. Indians should coach the Indian cricket team. All these foreign coaches, whom we end up giving a lot of importance to, they only come here, they make money, and they vanish,” Gambhir said during an interview. WATCH VIDEO - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gautam Gambhir (@gautamgambhir55) × Morkel and Gambhir’s partnership Morkel and Gambhir have a rich history of sharing the dressing room. Both were part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) backroom staff for two seasons in the IPL, where Gautam served as the mentor and Morkel as the bowling coach. The two stalwarts have also played together for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for three seasons. While Team India's head coach role is Gambhir’s first international coaching assignment, Morne served as the bowling coach of Pakistan during the 2023 World Cup. Gautam began his tenure with the away Sri Lanka series, where the Men in Blue won the T20Is (3-0) but suffered a shocking ODI series loss (1-2). However, Morkel’s first assignment will be the two-match Test series against Bangladesh in Chennai on September 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Gambhir's old video on foreign coaches 'vanishing' resurfaces after Morkel joins India's backroom staff

<p>Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach. Just like some other cricketing boards, like England Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB),&nbsp;many believed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would also not go for a one coach formula for all formats. However, the board stuck to the tried-and-tested approach while naming Gambhir as head coach across&nbsp;formats. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained BCCI's stance on having one coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to The Times of India, BCCI secretary&nbsp;Shah explained,&nbsp;"We've to listen to the coach we recruit. Once we have selected Gautam Gambhir and if he is interested to coach in all three formats, who am I to say 'you can't coach a particular format'. More or less 70 per cent players are the same in all three formats."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-virat-kohli-ricky-ponting-backs-this-player-to-break-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-in-tests-750544">Not Virat Kohli! Ricky Ponting backs THIS player to break Sachin Tendulkar's world record in Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>Mentioning that India had enough back-ups for the head coach role, Shah pointed out, "We have coaches from the NCA. When Rahul Dravid was taking a break, VVS Laxman used to step in."</p>

<p>Gambhir has been appointed as India's head coach until the 2027 ODI World Cup. His tenure started with India's bittersweet tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently, where the Men in Blue won the three T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs (2-0).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from having a new coach, there have been some changes at the leadership front as well. With Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the new captain whereas the Hitman&nbsp;continues to lead the side in Tests and ODIs. While Shubman Gill was India's vice-captain in the&nbsp;white-ball tour of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, the national side is on a break. India will commence their hectic home season from next month, starting with the Bangladesh series. They host the Bangla Tigers for two Tests and three T20Is.&nbsp;</p>


Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach.

Rahul Dravid ended his Team India coaching tenure post India's T20 World Cup triumph in June, in West Indies and the USA. As he made it clear that he wasn't keen on an extension, Gautam Gambhir replaced Dravid as India's all-format coach. Just like some other cricketing boards, like England Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket South Africa (CSA), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), many believed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would also not go for a one coach formula for all formats. However, the board stuck to the tried-and-tested approach while naming Gambhir as head coach across formats. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah explained BCCI's stance on having one coach. Speaking to The Times of India, BCCI secretary Shah explained, "We've to listen to the coach we recruit. Once we have selected Gautam Gambhir and if he is interested to coach in all three formats, who am I to say 'you can't coach a particular format'. More or less 70 per cent players are the same in all three formats." Also read: Not Virat Kohli! Ricky Ponting backs THIS player to break Sachin Tendulkar's world record in Tests Mentioning that India had enough back-ups for the head coach role, Shah pointed out, "We have coaches from the NCA. When Rahul Dravid was taking a break, VVS Laxman used to step in." Gambhir has been appointed as India's head coach until the 2027 ODI World Cup. His tenure started with India's bittersweet tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently, where the Men in Blue won the three T20Is (3-0) but lost the three ODIs (2-0). Apart from having a new coach, there have been some changes at the leadership front as well. With Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the new captain whereas the Hitman continues to lead the side in Tests and ODIs. While Shubman Gill was India's vice-captain in the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka. At present, the national side is on a break. India will commence their hectic home season from next month, starting with the Bangladesh series. They host the Bangla Tigers for two Tests and three T20Is.

'Who am I to tell Gautam Gambhir..?', Jay Shah's take goes VIRAL on India's one coach stance

<p>Gautam Gambhir's first assignment as India's head coach was the national side's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently. Under Gambhir, Suryakumar Yadav-led India whitewashed the Lankans in three T20Is before succumbing to a 2-0 ODI series loss. The three-match ODI series exposed India's spin woes as the seventh-ranked Sri Lankan side made merry and won the series to shock the cricketing fraternity.&nbsp;The 2-0 series win was Sri Lanka's first bilateral triumph over India in the ODIs since 1997, after 27 years. Thus, Gambhir's tenure has started on a bittersweet note, however, former India&nbsp;and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Robin Uthappa has backed the new coach and vouched for his&nbsp;leadership ability.</p>

<p>Talking to the Times of India, Uthappa said, "He's always been someone who thrives under pressure and has consistently sought out big stages to deliver. As far as I'm concerned, I see the same qualities in him as a leader within this group."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/they-should-be-dropped-former-cricketer-harbhajan-singh-on-seniors-in-indian-cricket-team-749548">'They should be dropped...,' Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh on seniors in Indian cricket team</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>UTHAPPA POINTS OUT GAMBHIR'S BEST QUALITY AS A LEADER</strong></h2>

<p>Uthappa added, "He [Gambhir] will seek out major opportunities and strive to seize them. As a leader, I can vouch for his ability to create an environment that enables people to thrive. He is that kind of leader—more than just a great captain, he's also an excellent tactician and an exceptional leader of people. He fosters a culture within the group that encourages success. Gautam Gambhir is a leader who provides security to his players, and we have seen that in action."</p>

<p>The ODI series saw the return of captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo retired from T20Is after India's T20 World Cup triumph. Even the senior batters' return couldn't prevent India's shocking loss to Charith Asalanka-led side where Jeffrey Vandersay and youngsters such as&nbsp;Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando made a mark for the hosts.</p>

<p>After the ODI series defeat, captain Rohit said, "These things happen, series loss is not the end of the world, you will lose an odd series here and there but it is about how you come back after the loss."</p>

<p>Under Gambhir, India's next assignment will be the home series versus Bangladesh, comprising two Tests and three T20Is starting next month.</p>


Gautam Gambhir's first assignment as India's head coach was the national side's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently. Under Gambhir, Suryakumar Yadav-led India whitewashed the Lankans in three T20Is before succumbing to a 2-0 ODI series loss.

Gautam Gambhir's first assignment as India's head coach was the national side's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, which ended recently. Under Gambhir, Suryakumar Yadav-led India whitewashed the Lankans in three T20Is before succumbing to a 2-0 ODI series loss. The three-match ODI series exposed India's spin woes as the seventh-ranked Sri Lankan side made merry and won the series to shock the cricketing fraternity. The 2-0 series win was Sri Lanka's first bilateral triumph over India in the ODIs since 1997, after 27 years. Thus, Gambhir's tenure has started on a bittersweet note, however, former India and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Robin Uthappa has backed the new coach and vouched for his leadership ability. Talking to the Times of India, Uthappa said, "He's always been someone who thrives under pressure and has consistently sought out big stages to deliver. As far as I'm concerned, I see the same qualities in him as a leader within this group." Also read: 'They should be dropped...,' Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh on seniors in Indian cricket team UTHAPPA POINTS OUT GAMBHIR'S BEST QUALITY AS A LEADER Uthappa added, "He [Gambhir] will seek out major opportunities and strive to seize them. As a leader, I can vouch for his ability to create an environment that enables people to thrive. He is that kind of leader—more than just a great captain, he's also an excellent tactician and an exceptional leader of people. He fosters a culture within the group that encourages success. Gautam Gambhir is a leader who provides security to his players, and we have seen that in action." The ODI series saw the return of captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The duo retired from T20Is after India's T20 World Cup triumph. Even the senior batters' return couldn't prevent India's shocking loss to Charith Asalanka-led side where Jeffrey Vandersay and youngsters such as Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando made a mark for the hosts. After the ODI series defeat, captain Rohit said, "These things happen, series loss is not the end of the world, you will lose an odd series here and there but it is about how you come back after the loss." Under Gambhir, India's next assignment will be the home series versus Bangladesh, comprising two Tests and three T20Is starting next month.

'Can vouch for Gambhir's ability to...': Robin Uthappa after India’s shambolic ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka

<p>Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is chasing a few unanswered questions as the Men in Blue prepare&nbsp;for the road to the Champions Trophy with the three-match ODIs against Sri Lanka starting August 2 in Colombo. The return of Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli boosts the team’s morale, as newcomers like Riyan Parag and Harshit Rana eye debuts.</p>

<p>However, amidst returns and debuts, everyone seeks answers to who stands tall between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the keeper-batter in ODIs, where does Shreyas Iyer fit in the middle order, will Hardik Pandya return to the scheme of things in the One-Day format and who is India’s third-choice seamer?</p>

<h2><strong>The Big Question – KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant?</strong></h2>

<p>With Rohit, Shubman Gill and Kohli likely to be India’s top three at the Champions Trophy 2025, the question arises - who plays in the middle order? Will KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant both play? And if that happens, where does Shreyas Iyer come into the picture?</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-waiting-for-revised-retention-policies-to-decide-on-ipl-future-746271">MS Dhoni waiting for revised ‘retention policies’ to decide on IPL future</a></strong></p>

<p>KL Rahul’s return to the squad for the Sri Lanka ODIs ring warning bells for Pant, who recently won the T20 World Cup in the Americas. Although he started ahead of Sanju Samson in the 20-team tournament, Pant could have to wait for his turn in the ODIs since the selectors picked KL Rahul as an incumbent keeper-batter for the three matches.</p>

<p>A match-winner in the middle order and more than a tidy keeper, with his exploits in the 2023 World Cup and away South Africa ODIs enough for evidence, KL is ahead in the pecking order to keep wickets in the SL One-Dayers.</p>

<p>In that scenario, Pant sits out, and Shreyas Iyer makes his much-awaited return to the Indian Team since his fallout with BCCI late last year. But should Gambhir decide against continuing with KL Rahul as the first-choice keeper despite Pant being available for selection, Team India could field all three, provided Pant keeps wickets.</p>

<h3><strong>Who will be the all-rounder?</strong></h3>

<p>The selectors cleared why they dropped Hardik Pandya for the SL ODIs, with fitness being a massive concern. Although they haven’t discarded the chances for his return, the selectors want Pandya to work on his bowling fitness to work his way back into the team.</p>

<p>Now, since he’s absent, the newer management will look to try Riyan Parag in his place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>READ MORE: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pathirana-madushanka-ruled-out-of-india-odis-with-injuries-as-sri-lanka-run-out-of-pace-options-746198">Pathirana, Madushanka ruled out of India ODIs with injuries as Sri Lanka run out of pace options</a></strong></p>

<p>The Assam all-rounder was impressive during the SL T20Is, not entirely with the bat, but with the ball in hand, which helped him press his case for his ODI debut in Sri Lanka.</p>

<h3><strong>Arshdeep, Siraj or someone else as the third seamer</strong></h3>

<p>With the ace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami sure of playing all games, the selectors are undecided about whom to pick as the third seamer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although Mohammed Siraj leads the race on seniority, the left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh has worked hard to get into contention.</p>

<p>With Siraj looked upon as a better longer-format bowler, Arshdeep has excelled in T20 cricket, finishing with the most wickets for India (17) in the T20 WC.</p>

<p>However, outside of these two, the selectors and the team management have other options like Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan or even Harshit Rana to look at should he make his ODI debut in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the eight-team tournament will be played in the February-March window next year, with Pakistan slated to host the tournament.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is chasing a few unanswered questions as the Men in Blue prepare for the road to the Champions Trophy with the three-match ODIs against Sri Lanka starting August 2 in Colombo.

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is chasing a few unanswered questions as the Men in Blue prepare for the road to the Champions Trophy with the three-match ODIs against Sri Lanka starting August 2 in Colombo. The return of Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli boosts the team’s morale, as newcomers like Riyan Parag and Harshit Rana eye debuts. However, amidst returns and debuts, everyone seeks answers to who stands tall between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the keeper-batter in ODIs, where does Shreyas Iyer fit in the middle order, will Hardik Pandya return to the scheme of things in the One-Day format and who is India’s third-choice seamer? The Big Question – KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant? With Rohit, Shubman Gill and Kohli likely to be India’s top three at the Champions Trophy 2025, the question arises - who plays in the middle order? Will KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant both play? And if that happens, where does Shreyas Iyer come into the picture? ALSO READ: MS Dhoni waiting for revised ‘retention policies’ to decide on IPL future KL Rahul’s return to the squad for the Sri Lanka ODIs ring warning bells for Pant, who recently won the T20 World Cup in the Americas. Although he started ahead of Sanju Samson in the 20-team tournament, Pant could have to wait for his turn in the ODIs since the selectors picked KL Rahul as an incumbent keeper-batter for the three matches. A match-winner in the middle order and more than a tidy keeper, with his exploits in the 2023 World Cup and away South Africa ODIs enough for evidence, KL is ahead in the pecking order to keep wickets in the SL One-Dayers. In that scenario, Pant sits out, and Shreyas Iyer makes his much-awaited return to the Indian Team since his fallout with BCCI late last year. But should Gambhir decide against continuing with KL Rahul as the first-choice keeper despite Pant being available for selection, Team India could field all three, provided Pant keeps wickets. Who will be the all-rounder? The selectors cleared why they dropped Hardik Pandya for the SL ODIs, with fitness being a massive concern. Although they haven’t discarded the chances for his return, the selectors want Pandya to work on his bowling fitness to work his way back into the team. Now, since he’s absent, the newer management will look to try Riyan Parag in his place. READ MORE: Pathirana, Madushanka ruled out of India ODIs with injuries as Sri Lanka run out of pace options The Assam all-rounder was impressive during the SL T20Is, not entirely with the bat, but with the ball in hand, which helped him press his case for his ODI debut in Sri Lanka. Arshdeep, Siraj or someone else as the third seamer With the ace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami sure of playing all games, the selectors are undecided about whom to pick as the third seamer. Although Mohammed Siraj leads the race on seniority, the left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh has worked hard to get into contention. With Siraj looked upon as a better longer-format bowler, Arshdeep has excelled in T20 cricket, finishing with the most wickets for India (17) in the T20 WC. However, outside of these two, the selectors and the team management have other options like Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan or even Harshit Rana to look at should he make his ODI debut in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, the eight-team tournament will be played in the February-March window next year, with Pakistan slated to host the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Gautam Gambhir chases few unanswered questions as India begin quest for Champions Trophy 2025 with SL ODIs

<p>Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris made a big claim about Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain. Surya was recently promoted as the T20I captain after he pipped Hardik Pandya for the top job with new head coach Gautam Gambhir and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar citing fitness issues for the latter. Under Surya, India have already won the ongoing three T20Is versus hosts Sri Lanka, with an unassailable 2-0 lead following an easy win in the second game. However, Styris feels the dashing batter is a 'short-term option' as Gambhir hasn't got a 'natural captain' to work with at present.</p>

<p>Styris told India Today, "I think he's a short-term option. I don't think Gambhir has a natural captain amongst the players that he has right now. He's buying himself time as to who will be the next long-term captain."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-to-host-2025-asia-cup-bangladesh-named-hosts-for-2027-edition-confirms-acc-745490">India to host 2025 Asia Cup, Bangladesh named hosts for 2027 edition, confirms ACC</a></strong></p>

<p>The New Zealander, however, lauded the team management for naming&nbsp;Shubman Gill as the white-ball vice-captain for the SL tour. After the three T20Is, the action will move to the three ODIs with Rohit Sharma to lead the side. Gill, who is currently Surya's deputy in T20Is is also the ODI vice-captain. Styris feels this is a right call as Gill is being looked upon as a future captain and, hence, is the right candidate to be vice-captain at present.</p>

<h2><strong>'Gill could do the job for 10 years for India'</strong></h2>

<p>Styris commented, "You know, someone like Gill I think could do the job for 10 years for India, but he's not quite ready right now, so I think it was a really smart decision to bring in someone with a bit more experience."<br />
<br />
He added, "If he (SKY) does a decent enough job, then he might be the captain at the next T20 World Cup. And then after that, you can look at Gill or any of the other potential options around. But yeah, I think it's a really clever decision."</p>


Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris made a big claim about Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain. Surya was recently promoted as the T20I captain after he pipped Hardik Pandya for the top job with new head coach Gautam Gambhir and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar citing fitness issues for the latter.

Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris made a big claim about Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain. Surya was recently promoted as the T20I captain after he pipped Hardik Pandya for the top job with new head coach Gautam Gambhir and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar citing fitness issues for the latter. Under Surya, India have already won the ongoing three T20Is versus hosts Sri Lanka, with an unassailable 2-0 lead following an easy win in the second game. However, Styris feels the dashing batter is a 'short-term option' as Gambhir hasn't got a 'natural captain' to work with at present. Styris told India Today, "I think he's a short-term option. I don't think Gambhir has a natural captain amongst the players that he has right now. He's buying himself time as to who will be the next long-term captain." Also read: India to host 2025 Asia Cup, Bangladesh named hosts for 2027 edition, confirms ACC The New Zealander, however, lauded the team management for naming Shubman Gill as the white-ball vice-captain for the SL tour. After the three T20Is, the action will move to the three ODIs with Rohit Sharma to lead the side. Gill, who is currently Surya's deputy in T20Is is also the ODI vice-captain. Styris feels this is a right call as Gill is being looked upon as a future captain and, hence, is the right candidate to be vice-captain at present. 'Gill could do the job for 10 years for India' Styris commented, "You know, someone like Gill I think could do the job for 10 years for India, but he's not quite ready right now, so I think it was a really smart decision to bring in someone with a bit more experience." He added, "If he (SKY) does a decent enough job, then he might be the captain at the next T20 World Cup. And then after that, you can look at Gill or any of the other potential options around. But yeah, I think it's a really clever decision."

Former NZ all-rounder makes BIG claim on Suryakumar as India's T20I captain, says 'Gambhir doesn't have...'

<p>The Indian cricket team kickstarted the Gautam Gambhir-Suryakumar Yadav era on a winning note on Saturday (July 27) despite a resolute show with the bat by hosts Sri Lanka. Winning by 43 runs, India&nbsp;took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series with an opportunity to seal the series on Sunday in the second T20I. Suryakumar Yadav was the top scorer for India having scored 58 off 26 while Rishabh Pant missed out on a fifty as he was dismissed for 49.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India take a 1-0 lead in the series with a clinical victory 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a>: <a href="https://t.co/CPxoJ8LlRJ">https://t.co/CPxoJ8LlRJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/VuCtkyv4XB">pic.twitter.com/VuCtkyv4XB</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1817247327901376777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>India starts on a winning note</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to defend 214 in a high-scoring contest at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, the visitors were on the back foot as Sri Lanka got off to a great start. Pathum Nissanka’s 79 off 48 set the tone for the hosts while Kusal Mendis (45 off 27) was also on the money. The pair stitched a partnership of 84 runs for the opening wicket Arshdeep Sing got the better of Mendis. However, that was not enough to break the momentum for the hosts with Kusal Perera joining in the middle.</p>

<p>The pair&nbsp;put up a partnership of 56 runs for the second wicket and took Sri Lanka to the brink of the win before the Indian bowlers started to dominate. Both Nissanka and Perera were dismissed by Axar Patel which started the downfall of the hosts. Only Kamindu Mendis with 12 would get into double figures for Sri Lanka as the rest of the batters were dismissed for single-digit scores.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-when--how-to-watch-manu-bhakers-10m-air-pistol-womens-singles-final---live-streaming-744800">Paris Olympics 2024: When &amp; how to watch Manu Bhaker's 10m air pistol women's singles final? - Live streaming</a></p>

<p>Sri Lanka quickly went from 140/1 to 170 all out, losing nine wickets in a span of 30 runs. Interestingly, Riyam Parag turned out to be the pick of the bowlers having ended with figures of 5/3 in his 1.2 overs. Arshdeep and Axar both ended with two wickets each while Mohammed Siraj and Ravi Bishnoi also bagged a wicket.</p>

<p>Earlier, India scored 213/7 in their 20 overs with Suryakumar top-scoring with 58 and Pant following on with 49. Yashasvi Jasiwal (40) and Shubman Gill (34) also got starts for India but could not convert into big innings. Matheesha Pathirana was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka having ended with figures of 40/4 in his four overs.</p>


The Indian cricket team kickstarted the Gautam Gambhir-Suryakumar Yadav era on a winning note on Saturday (July 27) despite a resolute show with the bat by hosts Sri Lanka.

The Indian cricket team kickstarted the Gautam Gambhir-Suryakumar Yadav era on a winning note on Saturday (July 27) despite a resolute show with the bat by hosts Sri Lanka. Winning by 43 runs, India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series with an opportunity to seal the series on Sunday in the second T20I. Suryakumar Yadav was the top scorer for India having scored 58 off 26 while Rishabh Pant missed out on a fifty as he was dismissed for 49. India take a 1-0 lead in the series with a clinical victory 🙌#SLvIND: https://t.co/CPxoJ8LlRJ pic.twitter.com/VuCtkyv4XB — ICC (@ICC) July 27, 2024 × India starts on a winning note Tasked to defend 214 in a high-scoring contest at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, the visitors were on the back foot as Sri Lanka got off to a great start. Pathum Nissanka’s 79 off 48 set the tone for the hosts while Kusal Mendis (45 off 27) was also on the money. The pair stitched a partnership of 84 runs for the opening wicket Arshdeep Sing got the better of Mendis. However, that was not enough to break the momentum for the hosts with Kusal Perera joining in the middle. The pair put up a partnership of 56 runs for the second wicket and took Sri Lanka to the brink of the win before the Indian bowlers started to dominate. Both Nissanka and Perera were dismissed by Axar Patel which started the downfall of the hosts. Only Kamindu Mendis with 12 would get into double figures for Sri Lanka as the rest of the batters were dismissed for single-digit scores. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: When & how to watch Manu Bhaker's 10m air pistol women's singles final? - Live streaming Sri Lanka quickly went from 140/1 to 170 all out, losing nine wickets in a span of 30 runs. Interestingly, Riyam Parag turned out to be the pick of the bowlers having ended with figures of 5/3 in his 1.2 overs. Arshdeep and Axar both ended with two wickets each while Mohammed Siraj and Ravi Bishnoi also bagged a wicket. Earlier, India scored 213/7 in their 20 overs with Suryakumar top-scoring with 58 and Pant following on with 49. Yashasvi Jasiwal (40) and Shubman Gill (34) also got starts for India but could not convert into big innings. Matheesha Pathirana was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka having ended with figures of 40/4 in his four overs.

SL vs IND, 1st T20I: India start Gambhir-Suryakumar era on winning note despite hosts' resolute show with bat

<p>All the eyeballs are on the newly-appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, as Team India embarks on the Sri Lankan tour with a new T20I captain and newer ideas. India will face the hosts Sri Lanka in the first of the three T20Is on Saturday (July 26) in Pallekele, with ace batter Suryakumar Yadav captaining the Men in Blue for the first time. Here is the preview and result prediction of the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka.</p>

<h2>Match Preview</h2>

<p>Since winning their second T20 World Cup title in the Americas last month, some seniors, including skipper SKY, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant and others, returned to the side for the three-match series. And with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja retiring from the format, Team India will bank on the youngsters to carry their legacies forward.</p>

<p>However, the onus has majorly been on Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach. With experts, pundits, and even his former teammates expressing their views on how things could unfold under Gautam, the ex-India opener remains keen on sticking to his mantra of coaching, which saw KKR winning its 3rd IPL title under his guidance this year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sl-vs-ind-1st-t20i-suryakumar-yadav-assured-of-no-change-in-approach-says-same-train-will-continue-744540">SL vs IND, 1st T20I: Suryakumar Yadav assured of no change in approach, says 'same train will continue'</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Men in Blue will have a newer opening pair in Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, while T20 WC-bound batters will fill up the middle-order space. Rinku Singh will play as a finisher, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will take up the all-rounder&nbsp;duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bishnoi will play as the lone spinner, with the pace duo of Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj to take the new ball.</p>

<p>On the other hand, the hosts, Sri Lanka, would like to keep up the spirits despite illness and injuries hitting their camp ahead of this marquee series.</p>

<p>Under the&nbsp;new captain, Charith Asalanka, and veteran duo Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Perera returning to the squad, Sri Lanka would hope for a power-pack start to the series. While the regulars would still hold the key, the absence of pacers – Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara could hurt their chances heading into the series opener.</p>

<p>However, seam bowling prodigy Matheesha Pathirana would be the one to look out for.</p>

<h3>Result Prediction –</h3>

<p>Despite Sri Lanka playing at home, the Men in Blue, oozing with confidence, would start as favourites.</p>

<p><strong>Predicted Playing XIs of both teams –</strong></p>

<p><strong>Sri Lanka -</strong> Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana and Binura Fernando</p>

<p><strong>India -</strong> Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj</p>


All the eyeballs are on the newly-appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, as Team India embarks on the Sri Lankan tour with a new T20I captain and newer ideas. India will face the hosts Sri Lanka in the first of the three T20Is on Saturday (July 26) in Pallekele, with ace batter Suryakumar Yadav captaining the Men in Blue for the first time.

All the eyeballs are on the newly-appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, as Team India embarks on the Sri Lankan tour with a new T20I captain and newer ideas. India will face the hosts Sri Lanka in the first of the three T20Is on Saturday (July 26) in Pallekele, with ace batter Suryakumar Yadav captaining the Men in Blue for the first time. Here is the preview and result prediction of the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka. Match Preview Since winning their second T20 World Cup title in the Americas last month, some seniors, including skipper SKY, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant and others, returned to the side for the three-match series. And with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja retiring from the format, Team India will bank on the youngsters to carry their legacies forward. However, the onus has majorly been on Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach. With experts, pundits, and even his former teammates expressing their views on how things could unfold under Gautam, the ex-India opener remains keen on sticking to his mantra of coaching, which saw KKR winning its 3rd IPL title under his guidance this year. ALSO READ: SL vs IND, 1st T20I: Suryakumar Yadav assured of no change in approach, says 'same train will continue' Meanwhile, the Men in Blue will have a newer opening pair in Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, while T20 WC-bound batters will fill up the middle-order space. Rinku Singh will play as a finisher, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will take up the all-rounder duties. Bishnoi will play as the lone spinner, with the pace duo of Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj to take the new ball. On the other hand, the hosts, Sri Lanka, would like to keep up the spirits despite illness and injuries hitting their camp ahead of this marquee series. Under the new captain, Charith Asalanka, and veteran duo Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Perera returning to the squad, Sri Lanka would hope for a power-pack start to the series. While the regulars would still hold the key, the absence of pacers – Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara could hurt their chances heading into the series opener. However, seam bowling prodigy Matheesha Pathirana would be the one to look out for. Result Prediction – Despite Sri Lanka playing at home, the Men in Blue, oozing with confidence, would start as favourites. Predicted Playing XIs of both teams – Sri Lanka - Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana and Binura Fernando India - Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj

Preview - Extra focus on coach Gambhir as Team India begins Sri Lanka T20Is with new captain and newer ideas

<p>India's new T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav says Hardik Pandya is a very important player of the team. The comments came days after Surya pipped Pandya to become the new T20I skipper following&nbsp;Rohit Sharma's retirement.</p>

<p>“Hardik's role has always been the same. He is a very important player for the team. The way he performed in the World Cup, I hope he will continue to do the same,” Surya told reporters on the eve of the first T20I against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Hardik, who was Rohit's deputy in the recently concluded T20 World Cup, lost out on the captaincy due to fitness issues as per the BCCI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-reacts-to-rahul-dravids-powerful-message-that-makes-him-smile-ahead-of-india-coaching-debut-744721">Gautam Gambhir reacts to Rahul Dravid’s 'powerful message' that makes him smile ahead of India coaching debut</a></p>

<p>Surya's first assignment is going to be the three-T20I series against Sri Lanka which starts on Sunday&nbsp;(Jul 28). The series also marks Gautam Gambhir's maiden one&nbsp;as the new head coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja's retirement, Rahul Dravid also decided not to continue as India head coach after T20 WC glory.</p>

<p>Hardik, as SKY mentioned, played a pivotal role in India's title-winning campaign, scoring 144 runs and taking 11 wickets throughout the tournament. Hardik also bowled the last over against South Africa in the final.</p>

<p>The all-rounder and SKY came together&nbsp;to take out David Miller who was Proteas' last hope to win the ICC trophy.</p>

<p>After SKY's announcement as T20I skipper, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar said&nbsp;that Pandya's fitness concerns and workload management were the main issues behind the decision.</p>

<p>Before the T20 World Cup, Hardik had last played in the 2023 ODI World Cup during which he got injured. The all-rounder only returned to competitive cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.</p>

<p><strong>India Squad for T20Is:</strong> Suryakumar Yadav (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj.</p>


India's new T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav says Hardik Pandya is a very important player of the team. The comments came days after Surya pipped Pandya to become the new T20I skipper following Rohit Sharma's retirement.

India's new T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav says Hardik Pandya is a very important player of the team. The comments came days after Surya pipped Pandya to become the new T20I skipper following Rohit Sharma's retirement. “Hardik's role has always been the same. He is a very important player for the team. The way he performed in the World Cup, I hope he will continue to do the same,” Surya told reporters on the eve of the first T20I against Sri Lanka. Hardik, who was Rohit's deputy in the recently concluded T20 World Cup, lost out on the captaincy due to fitness issues as per the BCCI. Also Read: Gautam Gambhir reacts to Rahul Dravid’s 'powerful message' that makes him smile ahead of India coaching debut Surya's first assignment is going to be the three-T20I series against Sri Lanka which starts on Sunday (Jul 28). The series also marks Gautam Gambhir's maiden one as the new head coach. Apart from Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja's retirement, Rahul Dravid also decided not to continue as India head coach after T20 WC glory. Hardik, as SKY mentioned, played a pivotal role in India's title-winning campaign, scoring 144 runs and taking 11 wickets throughout the tournament. Hardik also bowled the last over against South Africa in the final. The all-rounder and SKY came together to take out David Miller who was Proteas' last hope to win the ICC trophy. After SKY's announcement as T20I skipper, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that Pandya's fitness concerns and workload management were the main issues behind the decision. Before the T20 World Cup, Hardik had last played in the 2023 ODI World Cup during which he got injured. The all-rounder only returned to competitive cricket during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. India Squad for T20Is: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj.

'I hope he will...,' Suryakumar reacts on becoming India T20I skipper over Hardik Pandya

<p>Gautam Gambhir has been a hot topic in Indian cricket since replacing veteran Rahul Dravid as the new Team India coach. The former two-time World Cup winner will make his India coaching debut with the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Saturday (July 27) in Pallekele. This match also marks the T20I captaincy debut for ace batter Suryakumar Yadav.</p>

<p>So, Dravid had a special and powerful message for Gautam Gambhir&nbsp;that made him smile.</p>

<p>Hours before the start of the game, the BCCI released a video on its social media handle, where they made Gambhir sit in front of a laptop and watch a video he was unaware of.</p>

<p>Dravid, known for his calm and charming demur, had some wisdom words for the newly-appointed head coach. Being appreciative of Gambhir’s work ethic, to begin with, Dravid acknowledged him, adding a piece of advice, saying irrespective of the result, Gautam must put a smile on his face, which eventually made Gautam smile during the video.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-ricky-ponting-reflects-on-his-time-at-delhi-capitals-hints-at-returning-as-coach-for-another-franchise-744693">IPL: Ricky Ponting reflects on his time at Delhi Capitals, hints at returning as coach for another franchise</a></strong></p>

<p>"As your team-mate, I saw you giving it your all on the field," Dravid said to Gambhir. "As your batting partner and fellow fielder, I saw your resilience and refusal to surrender. Across many IPL seasons, I noted your desire to win, your assistance to younger players and your drive to extract the best out of your team on the field.</p>

<p>"I know how dedicated and passionate you are about Indian cricket and I am sure you will bring all these qualities into the new job,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Being in Gambhir’s shoes, Dravid knows the pressure of coaching the Indian Team. Briefing Gautam about the challenges that might come his way, Dravid urged him to play for the fans, whom he calls demanding but are always behind the team.</p>

<p>"As you know, the expectations will be high, and the scrutiny will be intense. But even in the worst of times, you will never be alone. You will have the support of the players, your support staff, the leaders of the past, the management and never forget for whom you play - for fans, who are very demanding but will always be behind the team,” Dravid said.</p>

<h2>Gambhir replies</h2>

<p>Going speechless over this beautiful message from Dravid, Gambhir began saying he was at a loss for words as he felt overwhelmed by this. Gautam continued saying he is thankful for such kind words, and it impacts him because he had grown up idolising Dravid as a cricketer.</p>

<p>"I don't know how to react because this message means so much to me," Gambhir said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The reason is not because it comes from the person who I have succeeded but from a person who I have always looked up to when I was playing.</p>

<p>"I have always felt that and I said it in a lot of my interviews - I think the most selfless cricketer I have actually ever played with. Rahul bhai has done anything and everything Indian cricket needed.</p>

<p>"I think there is so much to learn from, not only for me but for the next generation and the current generation as well. That's how important Indian cricket is, not me, not individuals,” Gambhir said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH VIDEO </strong>-</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 &amp; 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲! 📝<br />
<br />
To,<br />
Gautam Gambhir ✉<br />
<br />
From,<br />
Rahul Dravid 🔊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/k33X5GKHm0">pic.twitter.com/k33X5GKHm0</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1817039709438378311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gautam Gambhir has been a hot topic in Indian cricket since replacing veteran Rahul Dravid as the new Team India coach. The former two-time World Cup winner will make his India coaching debut with the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Saturday (July 27) in Pallekele.

Gautam Gambhir has been a hot topic in Indian cricket since replacing veteran Rahul Dravid as the new Team India coach. The former two-time World Cup winner will make his India coaching debut with the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Saturday (July 27) in Pallekele. This match also marks the T20I captaincy debut for ace batter Suryakumar Yadav. So, Dravid had a special and powerful message for Gautam Gambhir that made him smile. Hours before the start of the game, the BCCI released a video on its social media handle, where they made Gambhir sit in front of a laptop and watch a video he was unaware of. Dravid, known for his calm and charming demur, had some wisdom words for the newly-appointed head coach. Being appreciative of Gambhir’s work ethic, to begin with, Dravid acknowledged him, adding a piece of advice, saying irrespective of the result, Gautam must put a smile on his face, which eventually made Gautam smile during the video. ALSO READ: IPL: Ricky Ponting reflects on his time at Delhi Capitals, hints at returning as coach for another franchise "As your team-mate, I saw you giving it your all on the field," Dravid said to Gambhir. "As your batting partner and fellow fielder, I saw your resilience and refusal to surrender. Across many IPL seasons, I noted your desire to win, your assistance to younger players and your drive to extract the best out of your team on the field. "I know how dedicated and passionate you are about Indian cricket and I am sure you will bring all these qualities into the new job,” he continued. Being in Gambhir’s shoes, Dravid knows the pressure of coaching the Indian Team. Briefing Gautam about the challenges that might come his way, Dravid urged him to play for the fans, whom he calls demanding but are always behind the team. "As you know, the expectations will be high, and the scrutiny will be intense. But even in the worst of times, you will never be alone. You will have the support of the players, your support staff, the leaders of the past, the management and never forget for whom you play - for fans, who are very demanding but will always be behind the team,” Dravid said. Gambhir replies Going speechless over this beautiful message from Dravid, Gambhir began saying he was at a loss for words as he felt overwhelmed by this. Gautam continued saying he is thankful for such kind words, and it impacts him because he had grown up idolising Dravid as a cricketer. "I don't know how to react because this message means so much to me," Gambhir said. "The reason is not because it comes from the person who I have succeeded but from a person who I have always looked up to when I was playing. "I have always felt that and I said it in a lot of my interviews - I think the most selfless cricketer I have actually ever played with. Rahul bhai has done anything and everything Indian cricket needed. "I think there is so much to learn from, not only for me but for the next generation and the current generation as well. That's how important Indian cricket is, not me, not individuals,” Gambhir said. WATCH VIDEO - 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 & 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲! 📝 To, Gautam Gambhir ✉ From, Rahul Dravid 🔊#TeamIndia | #SLvIND | @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/k33X5GKHm0 — BCCI (@BCCI) July 27, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Gautam Gambhir reacts to Rahul Dravid’s 'powerful message' that makes him smile ahead of India coaching debut

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