Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the new Indian head coach has been one of the biggest topics of discussion in the cricketing world. He took over the office as the successor of the legendary Rahul Dravid, whose tenure came to an end after the historic triumph of the Indian team in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024. Former South African pacer Dale Steyn has heavily praised the decision from the Indian Cricket Board, BCCI as he believes Gambhir will bring in that aggression in the dressing room.
Dale Steyn on Gambhir becoming India coach
Legendary pacer believes if Virat and other senior players slowly play not that big role in the side, the aggression that Gambhir will bring in that dressing room will get crucial. He admitted to be a big fan of the former Indian opener.
"I’m a big fan of Gautam Gambhir. I love his aggression. He’s one of the few Indians I ever played against who came back at you, and I like that. I think he’s going to take that into the dressing room with guys like Virat and some of the other senior players who might not play as bigger part anymore. I’m not too sure," Steyn told Star Sports.
"Not just in India, but in world cricket, we need guys who are a little bit more aggressive and play the game a little bit harder. We all seem to play in the leagues against each other, and we become quite friendly and friends. I like the way that he’s fierce on the field but a gentleman off the field. He’s also streetwise, a very smart cricketer, and has a great cricket brain. So I think from that point of view, he’s going to be fantastic for them too," he added.
Jacques Kallis praises Gambhir
Gambhir's former opening partner from the KKR days and the legendary all-rounder Jacques Kallis also heavily praised the ex-KKR mentor. He wished him luck for this new stint and backed him to a wonderful job in this new role.
“It’s great to see Gautam getting into the coaching side of things. He’s got a really good cricket brain. He’ll bring some fire and loves playing the game aggressively. I think he’ll bring that added touch, and the guys will certainly learn a lot from him. He’s got a lot to add and will bring significant value to that Indian side. I wish him all the best—not too much against us, but I’m sure he’ll do a fantastic job,” Kallis said.
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