The Indian Test team is gearing up for an exciting new challenge as they face Bangladesh in a series starting from 19th September. This series is special as it will be Gautam Gambhir’s first as the head coach of Team India. Having taken over from Rahul Dravid in July, Gambhir and his team bring a fresh approach to the squad. Ahead of the first Test at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium, Indian captain Rohit Sharma shared his thoughts on the transition and what to expect under Gambhir’s guidance.
Differences in Coaching Style: Rohit on Gambhir vs Dravid
In a press interaction following Tuesday’s practice session, Rohit Sharma was asked about the change in the coaching team. The captain made it clear that the approach under Gautam Gambhir is completely different from that of Rahul Dravid, the former coach. However, Rohit also stressed that the team hasn’t faced any difficulties adjusting to this new style. He pointed out that such changes are a part of cricket, especially when switching between coaching teams with different perspectives and philosophies.
Rohit explained that he has played with Gautam Gambhir and assistant coach Abhishek Nair extensively in his career, which makes it easier to align with their thinking. Meanwhile, bowling coach Morne Morkel, the former South African pacer, is someone Rohit has played against on the international stage. However, Rohit admitted that he is still getting to know Ryan ten Doeschate, the former Netherlands captain who is part of the new coaching staff.
“Adjusting to New Perspectives”: Rohit’s Confidence in the Team
Rohit Sharma, now 37, shared that during his long cricket career, he has worked under several coaches, each bringing their own methods and ideas. This experience has taught him how to adapt to different styles of play, something he believes is crucial for success at the international level. He acknowledged that Dravid’s coaching methods were distinct, with the support of Paras Mhambrey and Vikram Rathour in the last series, but he’s confident that the team is ready to adjust to Gambhir and his support staff’s fresh outlook.
The Indian captain emphasized that there is no tension or miscommunication between the coaching staff and players. In fact, he feels everything has been smooth so far, with the squad fully prepared to take on the new challenge of this Test series.
Preparation for the First Test at Chepauk
Team India has been stationed in Chennai for the past four days, preparing for the first Test at Chepauk Stadium, which begins on Thursday. Rohit has been seen leading training sessions and working closely with the coaching team to fine-tune the squad’s strategy. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the team performs under Gambhir’s leadership and whether this new coaching approach brings a fresh spark to India’s Test game.
This series against Bangladesh will mark an important chapter for Team India, as they aim to build on their past performances and bring new energy to the field.
