Renowned for his enigmatic personality, Gautam Gambhir has been named the new head coach of the Indian cricket team. This is not the first time that the team has had a coach with a bold persona in their illustrious history.
Throughout the years, there have been several such figures who have led the Indian team fearlessly, unafraid to make bold decisions regardless of the star power in the dressing room. Some have tasted great success with this approach, while others have faced failure.
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One of the most controversial coaches in Indian cricket history is Australian legend Greg Chappell. He coached India for a tumultuous two-year period from 2005 to 2007, marked by lackluster performances and numerous controversies.
Join us as we explore India’s complex relationship with outspoken coaches in the past and what the newly appointed Gautam Gambhir could bring to the table.
Greg Chappell’s Controversial Reign
Chappell’s tenure as coach was marred by his rocky relationship with then-captain Sourav Ganguly. The clash between the two resulted in Ganguly being ousted from the team, with Chappell favoring younger talents like Yuvraj Singh and Mohammed Kaif.
India’s early exit from the 2007 ICC ODI World Cup under Chappell’s guidance added to the animosity towards him, making him one of the most reviled figures in Indian cricket.
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The Kohli-Kumble Fallout of 2017
Another contentious chapter in Indian cricket history was the dismissal of Anil Kumble as head coach in 2017. Reports of clashes between Kumble and captain Virat Kohli culminated in Kumble’s resignation after India’s loss to Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy final.
While not all bold coaches have faced such outcomes, Gary Kirsten stands out as a beloved figure among Indian fans for guiding the team to World Cup glory in 2011.
READ MORE: Rohit Sharma bids emotional farewell to Rahul Dravid
Gary Kirsten’s Triumph
Kirsten’s coaching tenure culminated in India’s World Cup victory in 2011, with players lifting him in celebration. Under Kirsten’s guidance, India achieved significant successes in both ODI and Test cricket.
Dhoni hailed Kirsten as “The best thing that happened to Indian cricket,” reflecting the impact of his coaching on the team.
READ MORE: Who will be Gautam Gambhir’s coaching staff in the Indian cricket team?
John Wright’s Underrated Legacy
John Wright’s tenure as India’s coach from 2000 to 2005 is often overshadowed by subsequent controversies. Under his leadership, India became a formidable Test team, achieving notable victories against top sides.
Wright’s success with the team is a testament to his coaching prowess, despite the challenges that followed in the years after his departure.
READ MORE: 1983 World Cup-winning player demands recognition from BCCI after 41 years
Prospects with Gautam Gambhir at the Helm
Given the turbulent history of bold coaches in Indian cricket, the appointment of Gautam Gambhir raises intrigue. With his reputation for creating a positive atmosphere in the dressing room, Gambhir could lead the team to new heights.
Recent interactions between Gambhir and Kohli suggest a thaw in their relationship, paving the way for a potentially fruitful coaching stint for Gambhir.