BCCI Rejects Gautam Gambhir’s Preferred Support Staff for Indian Cricket Team | Reports

July 17, 2024 0 630

Gautam Gambhir, recently appointed as head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, reportedly faced resistance from the BCCI over his support staff choices.

India’s new head coach Gautam Gambhir is struggling to finalize his support staff, facing significant pushback from the BCCI. According to reports from the Economic Times, his latest choice, Morne Morkel, was declined by the board.

This marks Gambhir’s third bowling coach recommendation that the BCCI has turned down, following R Vinay Kumar and Laximipathy Balaji. Both Kumar and Balaji were also rejected in earlier discussions. Gambhir’s challenges extend beyond the bowling coach position. His picks for fielding coach—Ryan ten Doeschate and Jonty Rhodes—were also declined by the board.

Among Gambhir’s choices, only former India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar is likely to join his support staff, possibly as an assistant or batting coach. Interestingly, most of Gambhir’s rejected candidates share a past with Kolkata Knight Riders, either playing under his captaincy or working with him on the coaching staff.

The report also added that the BCCI’s resistance to Gambhir’s choices signals a shift in power dynamics. While Gambhir was the board’s choice for head coach, he is not fully in control. Previously, decisions were made by committees, but now a few individuals hold most of the power.

With just 10 days before Gambhir starts his role with Team India for the T20I series in Sri Lanka, the current NCA coaching staff will serve as his interim support until a final decision is made.