Gautam Gambhir Sole Applicant for India Head Coach Role

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir is set to become India’s next head coach unopposed, as he is reportedly the only applicant for the role. According to The Indian Express, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) will interview Gambhir on Tuesday, comprising Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjape, and Sulakshana Naik via Zoom call. Gambhir, currently the mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders, was favored by BCCI despite the lack of other high-profile applicants, highlighting the declining interest in the demanding role which requires extensive travel.

The interview process will also include discussions for appointing a new selector to replace Salil Ankola, with preference likely given to a candidate from the North Zone. The appointments come as current head coach Rahul Dravid expressed his intent to step down after the ongoing T20 World Cup, prompting the BCCI to seek replacements. The final decisions and announcements are expected to follow after the CAC’s recommendations to the board.

Gambhir’s tenure, if appointed, will extend until the end of 2027, with the possibility of forming his own support staff. The changes are anticipated to coincide with Team India’s future commitments, potentially leading to a fresh lineup in coaching and support roles.