One victory at a time, Gautam Gambhir is ushering in a new era for Team India with his passionate speeches and tactical changes
The Indian cricket team has entered a new phase. The name Gautam Gambhir, which suggests tenacity and resolve, took on leadership of the Indian cricket squad. And what a fantastic beginning! India defeated Sri Lanka 3-0 in Pallekele in the Twenty20 series while he was in charge. It is immediately apparent that this is a reinvention rather than merely another coaching assignment.
India made a strong impression with a commanding 43-run victory in their opening Twenty20 International. The second game was a masterpiece in flexibility, won by 7 wickets via DLS. And the third one? Fans were on the edge of their seats for a thrilling Super Over finale. Gambhir has laid the groundwork for what may be a new golden age in cricket with skipper Suryakumar Yadav.
What and how did this happen when you two main batsman are still on crease and they loose wicket to Lord Rinku Singh. pic.twitter.com/EoyDMDwHWL
— Bishwajeet Mahato (@mahato99) July 30, 2024
When Gambhir talks, everyone listens. Having a reputation for being a tough player, Gambhir's impact as a coach is immediately evident. "This is what happens when you keep fighting," he said after the series victory. You never give up. His coaching methodology is based on this perseverance and a commitment to continuous growth. He already demonstrated his offensive mentality by selecting Suryakumar Yadav over Hardik Pandya to be the T20I captain.
Gambhir hasn't only introduced inspirational speeches; he has really made noticeable improvements. His focus on rapidly evaluating the situation and establishing reasonable par scores has resulted in a more strategic and intelligent style. Along with being passionate about fitness, he has pushed players to maintain peak form even during breaks. This coach is aware that preparation, as much as performance, is the foundation of success. Not to forget, it seems Gambhir wants every player to do something – if not with the bat then with the ball and vice versa.
While comparing only after three games seem early, it is imperative to discuss some of the stark differences between Gambhir and Rahul Dravid, his predecessor. The 'Wall' of Indian cricket, Dravid, carried his trademark composure and systematic style to coaching. During his tenure, he prioritised developing new talent, creating a strong team foundation, and stressing discipline.
India advanced to both the 2023 ODI World Cup final and the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinals and won the 2024 T20 World Cup under Dravid. But his method was frequently criticised for being overly conservative, particularly in high-stakes games where India appeared to collapse at critical junctures.
The best moment in the 2024 T20 World Cup for me was when Virat Kohli called Rahul Dravid and gave the Trophy to celebrate, I saw him hug the cup and cry. Rahul bhai screamed & cried, I felt that.
— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) July 23, 2024
~ Ashwin pic.twitter.com/ghTAxd7bjk
Contrarily, Gambhir provides a more direct, aggressive style. Gambhir is all about speedy results, but Dravid was about continuous progress. Even though his stint is short, it promises a more flexible and dynamic Indian team.
In the last series, he altered bowlers and handed younger players important roles, demonstrating his willingness to make risky decisions like giving the ball to Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav in the death overs. This desire to switch things up may be just what India needs to end their ICC ODI World Cup drought.
Then there’s Ravi Shastri, under whom India became one of the most formidable Test sides in the world. Shastri’s tenure was marked by a raw, aggressive brand of cricket, particularly in Tests.
The mastermind behind India’s remarkable success in Test cricket, including series victories in Australia // Picture Courtesy – ABP Live
His partnership with Virat Kohli was built on a shared desire to dominate, especially on foreign soil. Shastri’s India won back-to-back Test series in Australia, a feat that cemented his legacy. However, like Dravid, Shastri’s white-ball record was less impressive, with India often falling short in knockout matches.
Gambhir's disdain is primarily tactical rather than emotional. Gambhir seeks to outwit opponents, whereas Shastri tried to outmuscle them. His approach entails meticulous planning, swift adjustments, and giving players the freedom to lead on the pitch. It combines the passion and discipline of Shastri and Dravid with the special Gambhir spice of measured risk-taking.
