Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fielding coach Jonty Rhodes recently shared insights into the personality of former team mentor Gautam Gambhir, revealing a side of the cricketing stalwart that fans rarely see. Speaking during an interaction on the sidelines of the Pro Cricket League’s pre-launch event, Rhodes described Gambhir as a person who, despite his serious demeanor during matches, does indeed smile off the field.
A Coach with Consistent Demeanor
Gambhir, known for his intense focus and no-nonsense approach, has often been seen in the dugout with a stern expression, even during moments of triumph. This has led many to wonder if he ever relaxes or shows a lighter side. Addressing these speculations, Rhodes, who became LSG’s fielding coach in 2023, said, “He actually does, amazingly enough. But not in the dugout. Not at all. But that is important because you can’t have a coach who smiles when you take a wicket and then frowns when you drop a catch. You know, so that sort of consistency, if it’s the GG deadpan look, then you would rather have that sort of consistency.”
Rhodes emphasized that Gambhir’s consistent demeanor plays a crucial role in maintaining the team’s focus and discipline. “He’s certainly in the team environment off the field. He’s someone who is happy to smile,” Rhodes added, painting a picture of a man who knows when to switch between his game face and a more relaxed, approachable persona.
The Gambhir Impact on LSG and KKR
Under Gambhir’s mentorship, LSG saw remarkable success, qualifying for the playoffs in both the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons. His departure to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the 2024 season was a significant shift, one that had noticeable effects on both franchises. While Gambhir went on to guide KKR to their third IPL title in 2024, LSG struggled without his strategic leadership, missing the playoffs for the first time since their inception.
Gambhir’s influence on teams has always been profound. His passion for the game and relentless pursuit of excellence have been evident throughout his career, both as a player and a mentor. Rhodes highlighted this when discussing Gambhir’s role as a mentor and coach, stating, “He’s somebody who’s not gonna be lenient with anybody unless it’s required. He just wants excellence. I mean, he wants the team to win, and it’s not for his record or for what he can achieve.”
Transitioning to the Role of India’s Head Coach
Following the 2024 IPL, Gambhir took on the role of head coach for the Indian cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid after India’s T20 World Cup victory. His tenure began with a mixed bag of results during the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka. The Indian team, under Gambhir’s guidance, won the T20I series 3-0 but suffered a surprising 0-2 defeat in the ODI series.
Despite the challenges, Rhodes expressed confidence in Gambhir’s ability to quickly adapt to his new role, emphasizing that the former cricketer’s leadership style would eventually yield positive results for the Indian team. “Every team that he’s involved in, he’s wanted to win desperately, and you see the way that he bats, the way that he captains. He’s so passionate, so involved in the game,” Rhodes noted, highlighting Gambhir’s deep commitment to success.
As Gambhir prepares for his first Test series as India’s head coach against Bangladesh, starting on September 19, expectations are high. His track record as a player and mentor suggests that his tenure will be marked by a strong emphasis on discipline, consistency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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Looking Ahead
Gambhir’s journey from a fierce, determined cricketer to a mentor and now the head coach of the Indian team is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport. While he may not be the most expressive on the field, those who work closely with him, like Jonty Rhodes, have seen the softer, more personable side of Gambhir that the public rarely gets to witness. As India prepares for upcoming challenges, fans and players alike will be looking to Gambhir’s leadership to guide them to new heights, both in the shorter and longer formats of the game.
With his passion and drive, coupled with his ability to maintain a steady hand during high-pressure situations, Gambhir’s influence is sure to shape the future of Indian cricket in the years to come.
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