Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir celebrated his team's third IPL title victory on Sunday night at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad. Amid the jubilations, Gambhir took time to meet and engage in a lengthy conversation with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, fueling speculation about his potential appointment as India's next head coach.
Gambhir, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, has surfaced as the leading candidate to succeed Rahul Dravid, whose tenure concludes after the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. With Dravid opting not to reapply for the role, the BCCI has opened the position to new applicants, with the contract extending through the 2027 ODI World Cup.
While several Australian cricket legends, including Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, were rumored to be in consideration, both have denied any intention of applying. Shah clarified that the BCCI prefers an Indian coach familiar with domestic cricket intricacies, further hinting at Gambhir's favorability for the role.
During the IPL final celebrations, Shah's interaction with Gambhir, which included congratulations and photographs, intensified the speculation. Gambhir, who is keen on replacing Dravid, has yet to formally submit his application. A potential meeting with BCCI officials in Chennai post-IPL final could solidify his candidacy. Once Gambhir applies, an official announcement from the BCCI is expected to confirm his appointment as the new head coach.
However, Gambhir faces a dilemma involving a conversation with KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan before proceeding. Khan, instrumental in bringing Gambhir back to KKR as a mentor from Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the IPL 2024 season, has expressed a desire for Gambhir to manage the team for a decade, even offering a blank cheque to secure his commitment.
As the cricketing world awaits Gambhir's decision, his potential transition from KKR mentor to India's head coach remains a topic of significant interest and speculation.
