India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has been backed by the Indian bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, amidst his mixed tenure as the Indian head coach, which has included both highs as well as some disappointing lows.
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A young Indian side recently toured England for a 5-match Test series, which ended in a draw, with both teams winning 2 games each. The series was one of the most highly competitive Test series in recent times, with many experts even comparing it to the 2005-2006 Ashes.
The series sparked a lot of debate, not only about the on-field players, but also about India's head coach Gambhir.
Shardul Thakur believes Gautam Gambhir is a fighter
Gambhir, in his tenure as India's head coach so far, has enjoyed some wonderful results, while also facing some major disappointments. He took over the role from Rahul Dravid after India lifted the T20 World Cup and were at an all-time high as a side.
"Yes, we have always seen him (Gambhir) as a player who is willing to fight for the team, and even during the huddles, he transferred that energy into us, the one that he brought into the field during his playing days. He is an achiever who has won trophies for the nation and the state, and he brings all those experiences and motivations into the team," said Shardul in an exclusive chat with Revsportz.
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Gambhir's major disappointment as India's head coach came in 2024 when India was clean-sweeped by New Zealand in India (3-0), a very rare occurrence, amidst India's significant dominance on home soil. It was the first time that the Indian side was whitewashed at home in a Test series of 3 matches or longer.
"Criticism will come and go, but as a team, winning matters, and I believe we are heading in the right direction when it comes to that," added Shardul on the criticism faced by Gambhir.
On the other hand, India also lifted the ICC Champions Trophy under Gambhir's reign and has dominated the ODI format. They even drew a Test series in England with a very young team and a young captain, Shubman Gill.
What's ahead for Gambhir?
Gambhir is expected to be at the helm until the ICC Men's 50-over World Cup in 2027. He has some big tours and big ICC events lined up in the course of the next two years, which include a 50-over World Cup, a T20 World Cup, and a WTC final.
Gambhir's next big assignment as India's head coach is the ACC Men's Asia Cup, starting in September. India's squad for the marquee continental event is expected to be released on Tuesday, August 19.
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