Even Gautam Gambhir needs time to mature as a coach — and he is indeed maturing. After India’s resounding performances in Tests, questions about his ability have finally started to ease.www.telecomasia.net
Earlier, when India lost a home series to New Zealand and then went down to Australia in their own backyard, critics were quick to question his very existence as the Test team’s coach.www.telecomasia.net
Yes, India might have lifted the Champions Trophy, but that didn’t shield Gambhir from criticism over the team’s inconsistent red-ball record. He bore the brunt of every poor outing in Test cricket. Gambhir knows he still has a point to prove, and with every passing day, he is quietly but steadily doing just that.For Gambhir, the transition has been no different. His reputation as a cricketer who thrived in pressure situations — and later as a leader who guided India to the Champions Trophy and revived his beloved Kolkata Knight Riders with another IPL title — precedes him.
But international coaching is a different beast. Winning trophies is only one part of the challenge. Sustaining success across formats, especially in Test cricket, is the real exam.
Signs of Restraint
Known for his instinctive aggression on and off the field, Gambhir has shown encouraging signs of growth in his new role. He is learning to channel his emotions and control his reactions.
This was evident during the Delhi Premier League final on August 31, when a group of fans tried to provoke him by chanting “RCB Zindabad”. In a rare display of restraint, Gambhir simply walked away without uttering a word.
Yes, some juniors in the Indian dressing room may still find him intimidating and are yet to open up completely. But that will come with time. What matters most is Gambhir’s intent: he seems determined to build bridges and do whatever it takes for the larger cause of Indian cricket.
Backed by Results
Former India cricketer and selector Ashok Malhotra believes Gambhir’s early success as head coach has already set the tone for his tenure.
He added that India’s commendable performance in England during the Test series has further strengthened Gambhir’s position. From here, Malhotra feels, there should be no looking back.
