Shahid Afridi Praises Gautam Gambhir as New Head Coach of Indian Cricket Team

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi welcomed Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the head coach of Team India. Afridi lauded Gambhir as a positive and straightforward figure. Gambhir, a former Indian opener, will replace Rahul Dravid after India's T20 World Cup 2024 victory against South Africa.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi expressed optimism over Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. Afridi commended the ex-Indian batsman for his positive outlook and straightforward approach, highlighting the significant opportunity Gambhir now has ahead of him.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah announced Gambhir's new role on Tuesday. Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Afridi shared his views, stating, "It's a big opportunity for him, and we need to see how he makes the most of it. He speaks positively and directly, which is commendable." Gambhir will be taking over from Rahul Dravid, whose tenure concluded following India's T20 World Cup 2024 win.

Gambhir, known for his crucial contributions in India's ICC T20 World Cup 2007 and ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 victories, served as the mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2024. Under his guidance, KKR clinched their third IPL title. With 242 international matches and 10,324 runs at an average of 38.95, Gambhir's impressive record speaks volumes. His ascension follows India's triumphant win in the T20 World Cup 2024, where Virat Kohli and Axar Patel's formidable partnership secured a thrilling 7-run victory against South Africa.