Exclusive: BCCI suggests World Cup-winner and ex-CSK bowler's name for bowling coach after Gautam Gambhir recommends ex-KKR pacer's name for role

On July 9, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Gautam Gambhir as the men’s cricket team’s head coach. Sports Tak has learned that while Gambhir named former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Vinay Kumar’s name for the bowling coach role, BCCI is discussing names of ODI World Cup 2011 winning member Zaheer Khan and former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji. 
 

As per the sources, some BCCI officials are not sure whether Vinay will be able to deliver as the bowling coach. It has also been learnt that the board does not want the head coach to have a free hand in making these decisions.
 

“BCCI does not want one person (head coach) to have full autonomy and intend to keep the control within the board. That’s is why decisions will be in hand of BCCI keeping in mind the betterment of cricket,” the source said. 

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Gambhir wants KKR mate as batting coach

Earlier, Gambhir had recommended the name of Abhishek Nayar as batting coach. Nayar had worked with Gambhir at KKR in IPL 2024 when the Shreyas Iyer-led side won their third title. The former Indian opener had initially suggested Jonty Rhodes’ name for the fielding coach but is content with the work T Dilip has done. Dilip whose contract ended with T20 World Cup 2024 is likely to reapply and retain his position. 
 

While Gambhir’s support staff is yet to be announced, the 42-year-old will also have his first meeting with selectors ahead of the tour of Sri Lanka. 

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Earlier, he wanted to be with the Shubman Gill-led side on Zimbabwe tour but his request was denied. 
 

What Gambhir said after his appointment as head coach

“India is my identity and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honoured to be back, albeit wearing a different hat. But my goal is the same as it has always been, to make every Indian proud. The men in blue shoulder the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!” Gambhir posted on X.
 

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