The much-awaited announcement has been made, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has finally appointed former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach of the Indian team. He has replaced Rahul Dravid and becomes the 25th player to coach Team India at the highest level. It will be a big opportunity and a challenge at the same time for Gautam Gambhir.
Because with Dravid, India played in three ICC finals and won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. With the Champions Trophy 2025 and the World Test Championship final coming up, Gambhir’s role becomes crucial. But Gambhir’s appointment can bring joy to some players. Not in the current team or setup, but some players from Kolkata Knight Riders, where Gambhir had a successful stint as a mentor in the IPL 2024.
Three KKR players who might get a chance in Indian Team after Gautam Gambhir became Head Coach
1. Varun Chakravarty
Varun Chakravarty has been a key part of the KKR setup for years now. He played a vital role in the IPL 2024 win and was the leading wicket taker for them. The 32-year-old is a mystery spinner and has played six T20Is for India. He was part of the T20 World Cup 2021 but couldn’t make an impact. Varun has taken two wickets in six T20Is and has been ignored since then. But with Gautam Gambhir as head coach, there are chances that Varun can make a comeback.
2. Nitish Rana
The 30-year-old swashbuckling batter, Nitish Rana, is also someone who is searching for a chance in the Indian side. With the team focusing on giving more chances to youngsters in T20Is, Nitish is also hopeful for a comeback. He has played one ODI and 2 T20Is for India. However, Gautam Gambhir knows his potential and might give him his second chance to play for India.
3. Venkatesh Iyer
Venaktesh Iyer is a promising all-rounder who has been on the radar for 3-4 years. He also made his debut for India in 2021 and has played 9 T20Is and 2 ODIs for India. But since 2022, he has not gotten a chance. Venkatesh Iyer was instrumental in KKR’s success in the IPL 2024 and smashed two unbeaten fifties in Qualifier 1 and the Final to help his team win. So, he was in good form, and we might see him making his comeback because of Gautam Gambhir.
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