"BCCI Urged to Consider Zaheer Khan or Ashish Nehra for India's Bowling Coach Role Amid Praise for Gautam Gambhir"

Gautam Gambhir is on the verge of being appointed as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team, set to succeed Rahul Dravid. A two-time World Cup winner for India, Gambhir completed his initial interview with the Cricket Administration Committee on Tuesday. He remains the leading candidate for one of Indian cricket's most prestigious roles, although competition includes WV Raman and an undisclosed overseas contender, with another round of interviews yet to come.

Despite his lack of formal coaching experience, Gambhir has the credentials to meet all requirements. His instrumental role in guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to three IPL victories—twice as captain and once as mentor—showcases his leadership and knack for elevating talented teams to triumph. Indeed, his impressive track record has led former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal to assert that there is no more fitting or impactful candidate than Gautam Gambhir to steer Indian cricket forward after Rahul Dravid.

Gambhir's influence extends beyond KKR. As mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants in the first two seasons of IPL 2022 and 2023, LSG reached the Playoffs, with Gambhir credited for the franchise's ascent. However, succeeding with Team India will require a competent coaching team. Speculation suggests Jonty Rhodes, who worked with Gambhir at LSG as their fielding coach, is in discussions with him, though nothing is confirmed yet. Gambhir also needs new batting and bowling coaches to join his staff.

Interestingly, Akmal, who famously clashed with Gambhir during a 2008 India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match, suggested a few names he believes could support Gambhir. These individuals have shared victories with Gambhir in the past.