The financial details of Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as India’s head coach are still being finalized, but he considers them a secondary concern at the moment. Following BCCI secretary Jay Shah’s official announcement of Gambhir’s long-anticipated appointment on Tuesday, discussions are ongoing regarding his salary, expected to be in line with his predecessors Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri.
“For Gautam, it was crucial to assume the role first, with salary and other contractual aspects to follow, as they aren’t urgent,” a source within BCCI told PTI. “Similar to Ravi Shastri’s initial appointment in 2014 as Director of Cricket, Gambhir has joined without a finalized contract, with details being ironed out. His salary will be comparable to that of Rahul Dravid.”
Gambhir is set to assemble his own coaching team, collaborating closely with National Cricket Academy (NCA) coaches overseeing India A and U-19 teams, along with targeted players.
“I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the BCCI, Head of Cricket Mr. VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, importantly, the players, as we strive for success in upcoming tournaments,” Gambhir remarked.
While Laxman is currently with the young T20 team in Zimbabwe, discussions about the future, involving new head coach Gambhir, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, and captains Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, are expected upon his return.
Exploring Support Staff Options
There is considerable interest in Gambhir’s choice of core support staff. Abhishek Nayar, head of KKR’s academy and a former Mumbai stalwart known for his strategic acumen and player mentoring, is likely to join as an assistant coach, bolstered by his close association with Captain Rohit Sharma.
Meanwhile, discussions about potential candidates for the bowling coach position, including names like L Balaji and Zaheer Khan, have surfaced, though details await confirmation from Jay Shah.
The role of fielding coach may see interest in Jonty Rhodes, yet historically, the BCCI has favored promoting home-grown talent like R Sridhar and T Dilip.
Looking Ahead
Gambhir’s initial focus will be on preparing for challenges in ODIs and Tests, notably the upcoming series against Australia, which will include a decisive five-Test series beginning at the Optus Stadium in Perth. His coaching tenure will also encompass the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, pending BCCI approval for scheduling.
Having always emphasized his commitment to the Indian Army, Gambhir’s stance on participating in cricket events in Pakistan, especially with an ICC title at stake, will be closely watched under his renewed association with the BCCI.
