WATCH: Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir visits Kalighat temple ahead of IND vs SA Test series

Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir offered prayers at the Kalighat Temple in Kolkata before the start of the first Test match against South Africa at Eden Gardens. The much-awaited Test will begin on November 14, marking the start of a two-match series between India and the newly crowned World Test Champions. Gambhir’s temple visit showed his belief and hope for a successful start as India prepares to face a tough South African side.

India kicked off their home season with a comfortable 2-0 win over the West Indies, but this series against South Africa is going to be much tougher. The Proteas have a strong bowling attack and talented batters, which means India will need to give their best performance to win. Fans are eagerly waiting for the return of Test cricket at Eden Gardens, known for its electric atmosphere and passionate supporters.

A video of Gambhir at the Kalighat Temple has been shared widely on social media. Many fans appreciated the coach’s spiritual side before such an important series. His arrival has created a calmness and concentration for his team as they prepare for their eagerly awaited game in Kolkata.

Gambhir Shares Thoughts on Coaching and Team Communication

In an interview recently published on BCCI.tv, Gambhir discussed his position as a coach and the issues that he deals with as a coach. He mentioned that one of the hardest parts of coaching is telling a player that he won’t be part of the playing XI. Quoted by Cricbuzz, Gambhir said:

“If you tell someone that he's not playing, that's probably the toughest conversation for a coach and a player as well because I know that the player would get upset when he deserves to be part of the playing XI. But if you're honest, if you're straightforward, if you know that what you're saying is from your heart and there is nothing beyond that, I feel that some players do understand. And it's a communication between a player and a coach.”

Watch the video here

Before the main Test series, the India A vs South Africa A games ended in a 1-1 draw. India A won the first match, but the visitors chased 417 runs in the second to level the series. After the two Tests, both teams will play three ODIs and three T20Is, completing a full cricket tour. With Gambhir leading from the front, Team India will aim to start their home season on a high note at Eden Gardens.