NEW DELHI:
Sanjay Bhardwaj
,
Gautam Gambhir
's childhood coach, shared insights into the newly appointed head coach of the Indian men's cricket team. He emphasized that Gambhir has not only played the game but also faced numerous challenges throughout his life, stating, "usne khela bhi hai aur jhela bhi bohot hai".
The
BCCI
officially named Gambhir, a key member of the victorious 2011 ODI World Cup squad, as the head coach of the senior men's team on Tuesday.
Bhardwaj's comments shed light on the resilience and leadership qualities that Gambhir brings to his new role.
"As a player, he has won two World Cups, and as a leader, he will lead India to another World Cup glory. A true leader brings out the best in their players," Bhardwaj told IANS, when asked how he felt after his protege became the head coach of the
Indian cricket team
.
"Gautam Gambhir 'ne khela bhi hai aur jhela bhi bohot hai (Gautam Gambhir has not only played the game but also faced numerous challenges). A man who has endured so much will ensure that no one else suffers."
Pondering Gambhir's transition from a cricketer to a Member of Parliament and now assuming the role of Team India's head coach, the Dronacharya awardee said, "Gambhir endured challenges in every aspect of life, and those who face challenges have no doubts in their actions. He thrives in situations where challenges are prominent. Based on how he has tackled challenges in his life, he will excel in the future as well."
Under Gambhir's leadership, young players can expect a nurturing environment that allows them to thrive without undue pressure. The former Indian opener will likely foster a culture where emerging talents have the liberty to express themselves on the field, unencumbered by excessive expectations or doubts about their abilities.
"Young players will get free hands to play without any doubt. He will not put unnecessary pressure on any player. He was the one who brought Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, and Navdeep Saini because he knew their qualities. If you can make Sunil Narine open, which was a big challenge... If this move had failed, then the people would have said that Gambhir has guessed. Whatever he does is best for the team. He fulfills the challenge he takes," he said.
Bhardwaj commented on Gambhir's intense demeanor during matches, both as a team member and captain. He pointed out that social media can sometimes distort perceptions, emphasizing that Gambhir's passionate confrontations had particular motivations behind them.
"Things appear in different ways on social media. Any of his heated arguments happened for some reason... This is a game where you will have to remain a fighter. You have to play for victory. If you don't always play for victory, you can't make the team win, and you can't be a good leader.
In a recent discussion, he shared details about his interaction with Gambhir after the latter was named as the head coach. During their talk, he conveyed his heartfelt desires for Gambhir's success, hoping that he would lead the team to victory in "two or three World Cups" during his time as the coach.
"You have brought out the best quality in the players. You are unbiased and you know how to recognise players. I pray to God that whatever your qualities are, you should fulfill your responsibilities by keeping them unbiased. Having won two World Cups as a player, now guide India to win 2-3 World Cups as coach," Bhardwaj concluded.
English (US) ·