The sentiment was echoed by Board secretary Jay Shah.
“The baton now passes on to Mr Gautam Gambhir who will don the role of Head Coach from the forthcoming series in Sri Lanka,” he said.
“Gambhir has been a fierce competitor and a brilliant strategist. We believe he will bring the same tenacity and leadership to his role as Head Coach. His transition to the role of Head Coach is a natural progression, and I believe he will bring out the best in our players,” he said.
Shah said he expects Gambhir to inspire and lead the team to new heights.
“His vision for the future of Indian cricket aligns perfectly with our goals, and we are excited about the journey ahead,” he added.
As a player, Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.
He then proved his coaching credentials as the mentor of the KKR team that won the IPL title in 2024.
“It is an absolute honour to serve my tricolour, my people, my country,” said Gambhir in a BCCI statement.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team of support staff for their exemplary run with the team. I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India. I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role.”
Gambhir said he looks forward to working closely with the BCCI, Head of Cricket VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, “most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments.”
