Andy Flower Backs Gautam Gambhir as India’s New Head Coach: “He’s Got Strong Opinions”
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid after his tenure ended with India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph. This decision has been met with widespread approval, including from Andy Flower, former Zimbabwe player and current head coach of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Flower, who has a history of working with Gambhir during their time at the Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2022 and 2023, praised the BCCI’s decision. “He’s quite a man, Gautam Gambhir. I really enjoyed working with him. He’s got strong opinions, he’s got strong, clear views on the game. He’s very decisive, he’s a very proud Indian, he loves Indian cricket and his position representing Indian cricket. I think it’s a good appointment and I think he’s going to be successful,” Flower said on Sony Sports ahead of the India vs Zimbabwe third T20I match.
During their tenure at Lucknow Super Giants, Flower served as the head coach, while Gambhir was the team’s mentor. Ahead of IPL 2024, Gambhir transitioned to the role of mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Flower took over as the head coach for RCB. Under Gambhir’s mentorship, KKR secured their third IPL title in 2024, adding to their previous wins in 2012 and 2014 when Gambhir was captain.
BCCI president Roger Binny emphasized that Gambhir’s appointment signifies a new chapter for Indian cricket. The selection process involved interviews with several candidates, including WV Raman, but Gambhir’s extensive experience and clear vision for the team set him apart as the ideal choice to lead the team forward.
“Well, the first thing he’s got to do is just give up his legends cricket at the moment,” Flower humorously remarked, alluding to Gambhir’s ongoing involvement in other cricketing ventures. Flower’s endorsement of Gambhir highlights the mutual respect and professional rapport they developed during their IPL stints.
Gambhir’s first assignment as head coach will be the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, starting on July 27, where India will play three T20Is and three ODIs. With the new leadership, the cricketing community eagerly anticipates how Gambhir’s assertive and strategic approach will shape the future of Indian cricket.
