Under Gambhir, senior players like Virat and Rohit may not play big role, thinks Dale Steyn

Dale Steyn admires Gautam Gambhir (File)

Legendary South African pacer Dale Steyn has expressed his admiration for Gautam Gambhir and is confident that Gambhir will bring his aggressive style to the Indian dressing room. Gambhir, officially unveiled as India's head coach by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah, will make his coaching debut in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. The two-time ICC World Cup winner replaces Rahul Dravid, who led India to their second T20 world title in his final assignment.

Gambhir, despite having no official coaching experience in competitive cricket, has mentored Indian Premier League (IPL) teams Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Under his mentorship, Shreyas Iyer-led KKR secured their third IPL crown in Gambhir's homecoming season with the franchise this year. This success positioned Gambhir as the favourite to succeed Dravid as India's head coach.

Dale Steyn, discussing Gambhir's arrival, highlighted the need for aggressive players in world cricket who can play the game with greater intensity. Steyn acknowledged that senior players in the current roster might not have significant roles in the Gambhir era. Skipper Rohit Sharma, batting icon Virat Kohli, and veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have already retired from T20I cricket following India's World Cup triumph.

Steyn has consistently praised Gambhir, noting his aggressive playing style and his ability to challenge opponents. He appreciated Gambhir as one of the few Indian players who consistently fought back, believing that this aggression would benefit the dressing room, especially with senior players like Kohli who might not have a big role. Steyn emphasised the need for more aggressive players in cricket, both in India and globally.

According to BCCI secretary Jay Shah, modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gambhir has witnessed these changes up close. As India's head coach, Gambhir faces crucial assignments in the next two years. In November, India will tour Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and Gambhir will aim to rebuild the Indian team before the 2025 Champions Trophy. Additionally, in 2026, India will co-host the T20 World Cup with Sri Lanka.

Steyn also commented on the camaraderie among cricketers, noting that playing in various leagues fosters friendships. He praised Gambhir for being fierce on the field while maintaining gentlemanly conduct off it. Steyn highlighted Gambhir's streetwise nature, smart cricketing skills, and sharp cricket brain, adding that these qualities would be fantastic for the team.