Gautam Gambhir is reportedly the top candidate on the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) list to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s head coach.
NDTV reported that BCCI is interested in Gambhir for this significant role, especially as viable alternatives dwindle due to the withdrawal of certain overseas coaches.
Gambhir is a mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024. Amidst these developments, it has emerged that Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders, had previously offered Gambhir a “blank cheque” to ensure his long-term association with the franchise, potentially for the next decade. This offer was made during Gambhir’s tenure with Lucknow Super Giants.
According to a report in “Dainik Jagran,” Gambhir is interested in the role of India’s head coach but seeks assurance regarding his selection before officially applying. He is not inclined to enter the selection process as one of the various candidates.
As BCCI intensifies its efforts to secure Gambhir’s services, the report also reveals Shah Rukh Khan’s intention to retain the former India opener within the IPL franchise over an extended period.
The BCCI has faced challenges in finding Dravid’s successor, with noted coaches like Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, and Stephen Fleming declining the role. BCCI secretary Jay Shah clarified that no former Australian cricketer has been approached for the coaching position. He emphasized the importance of choosing someone who deeply understands India’s domestic cricket framework.
Gambhir’s decision to pursue the role of India’s head coach could hinge significantly on his discussions with Shah Rukh Khan regarding his future at KKR.
