Indian cricket fans have taken to social media to express their reactions to the appointment of former cricketer Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach of the India men’s senior team. The announcement was made by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah on July 9, just days after India clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup trophy. Gambhir, who recently led the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to an IPL 2024 title, will replace Rahul Dravid at the helm of the national side.

The chatter around Gambhir’s appointment as head coach grew louder during the second half of the IPL 2024 season. Although there was no formal approach initially, discussions between the BCCI and Gambhir progressed informally. Despite having no prior coaching experience at the highest level, Gambhir’s successful stint as a mentor in the IPL convinced the BCCI that he is the right man to lead the team forward. Gambhir will officially take on his new role starting with the Sri Lanka series, which includes 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs, from July 27 to August 7. Until then, the Indian team, currently playing a 5-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, will remain under the mentorship of VVS Laxman.

Reflecting on coaching success and controversies

The appointment of Gambhir brings back memories of past coaching tenures, both successful and controversial. Gary Kirsten’s period as the Indian head coach from 2008 to 2011 is fondly remembered as a golden era. Under Kirsten’s guidance, India won the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and achieved the number one Test ranking. Kirsten’s calm demeanor and strategic acumen were instrumental in these successes.

In contrast, Greg Chappell’s tenure from 2005 to 2007 is often cited as one of the most controversial periods in Indian cricket. Chappell’s aggressive coaching style and frequent conflicts with senior players, including Sourav Ganguly, led to significant unrest within the team. The period was marked by mixed performances on the field and eventually led to Chappell’s exit.

See Also: Another selfless act by Rahul Dravid; Former India coach refused extra bonus from BCCI – Cricket Winner

Fan’s reactions

Fans are divided over Gambhir’s appointment. While many praise the decision, terming it as the dawn of a new era for Indian cricket, others express concern over potential controversies. Some fans fear a repeat of the tumultuous Chappell era, given Gambhir’s similar combative mindset and outspoken nature. Despite these concerns, there is cautious optimism that Gambhir’s passion and tactical knowledge will bring success to the team.

Gambhir as ICT coach
Either ultimate glory or another Greg Chappell in making! pic.twitter.com/3t5dSDU4LO

— R R (@RacchaRidhvik) July 9, 2024

Under GAUTAM GAMBHIR Coaching there is no in between,Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will play 2027 World Cup or not will depend on Champion Trophy results.

We might see a lot of success under his Coaching or maybe Greg Chappell 2.0 is loading.Gets ready for the rollercoaster ride pic.twitter.com/phmVbu38ya

— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) July 9, 2024

Now I believe that there will be no place for personal milestones or statpadinng in ICT.

Captain Rohit Sharma brought the revolution, now coach Gautam Gambhir will make everyone a part of the revolution.

The intent, the mindset, the selfless play is about to reach its peak. pic.twitter.com/b93chuiWXy

— Vishal. (@SPORTYVISHAL) July 9, 2024

#GautamGambhir has an Australian mindset, he is perfect for our ICT head coach position🔥 pic.twitter.com/6O8pzaDDwV

— narsa. (@rathor7_) July 9, 2024

Gautam Gambhir introducing Jasprit Bumrah as an opener after becoming the India cricket team coach. pic.twitter.com/htsmB5mAcO

— Sai Teja (@csaitheja) July 9, 2024

Scenes after Gautam Gambhir is appointed head coach.#GautamGambhir | #HeadCoach | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/EVwPEtpjcy

— Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@smileagainraja) July 9, 2024

Gautam Gambhir -The Head Coach
Shreyas Iyer – The Captain
This duo can cook WC27!!💪❤️‍🔥
New era Begins! pic.twitter.com/WnVB4KW28b

— Harshaaaa (@Harshrey_) July 9, 2024

Gautam Gambhir as India's coach pic.twitter.com/1tI6J9juOZ

— Vinay Kumar Dokania (@VinayDokania) July 7, 2024

Gautam Gambhir has become coach of Indian Cricket Team. Here are some rules that he may implement:

– Only merit will matter.
– Your PR won't matter (Rishabh Pant shaking)
– Chhapri culture not allowed.
– Team targets before Individual targets.
– Woke behaviour won't be… pic.twitter.com/5h6kT0eQ8m

— Incognito (@Incognito_qfs) July 9, 2024

Gautam Gambhir – The Hero of 2007 T20 WC Final.

Virat Kohli – The Hero of 2024 T20 WC Final.

Can't wait to see the combo of Virat Kohli & Gautam Gambhir together for India – TWO ICONS OF INDIAN CRICKET. 🇮🇳🐐 pic.twitter.com/6ovfW3hKKr

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) July 9, 2024

Both John Wright and Gary Kirsten were reasons for immense joy to Indians. Gautam Gambhir can be another John, Kirsten, Dravid or Greg Chapell. The last name is dreaded. Gautam Gambhir is great but he can swing both ways. Too early to predict anything. https://t.co/uXfkzq30li

— Rana. (@bladeit) July 9, 2024

As Gambhir prepares to take on his new role, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see if he can emulate the success of coaches like Kirsten or if his tenure will be marked by challenges similar to those faced during Chappell’s time. Only time will tell how this new chapter in Indian cricket unfolds.