The Gambhir Era Begins: New Changes Await Indian Cricket Team Ahead of Sri Lanka Tour

Former cricketer Pragyan Ojha announces the start of the Gautam Gambhir era as India's head coach. The upcoming Sri Lanka tour will see multiple changes in the team, with new captaincy roles and senior players making a return. The tour begins on July 27 with a T20I series.

Former India left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha declared the dawn of the Gautam Gambhir era, expressing anticipation for the new changes expected under his leadership.

Ojha, speaking at a Sony Sports Network event, noted, "The Gautam era has started and it has been good to see what changes he will bring to team India." Gambhir steps in as the new head coach after Rahul Dravid's departure post India's T20 World Cup win in America last month. This marks Gambhir's inaugural tour as India's coach.

Significant team alterations have occurred, including Suryakumar Yadav replacing Hardik Pandya as T20I captain. Shubman Gill now serves as vice-captain in white-ball formats. The tour starts on July 27 with a three-match T20I series, followed by a three-match ODI series beginning August 2, with matches hosted in Pallekele and R Premadasa stadiums.

Ojha praised Suryakumar Yadav's capabilities and applauded the decision to include senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the ODI squad, which will offer clearer direction for the team's future. Former Sri Lankan all-rounder Sanath Jayasuriya has also been named as the interim head coach for the Lankan Lions.

India's previous tour of Sri Lanka in July 2021, under Rahul Dravid's coaching, saw them winning the ODI series 2-1. The upcoming squad comprises a mix of seasoned and new players in both T20I and ODI formats.

(With inputs from agencies.)