Aakash Chopra reacts to reports of Gautam Gambhir replacing Rahul Dravid

Former Indian cricketer and renowned commentator Aakash Chopra has reacted to the reports of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) contacting Gautam Gambhir to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s head coach after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2024.

Chopra backed Gambhir’s appointment as head coach, saying that he could be great for India during a transition phase. However, he raised concerns about whether his strict methods would be effective with many seniors still on the side.

"Not a bad choice, there is no doubt about that, because he is a straightforward person. He knows how to manage and build a team. I really rate him high when it comes to the auction. However, there will be no auction for the Indian team. Gautam Gambhir, the coach, is a very strong personality," Chopra said while speaking on his official YouTube channel.

"When there is a transition, a new captain is coming, then yes. However, if the team has a lot of seniors already, I will be a little wary because Gauti's style of working is almost like a strict father. When the father is strict, the children have to be a little careful," the former India opener added.

Remember, the BCCI has also contacted three foreign coaches to replace Dravid. Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting and Stephen Fleming are the ones on BCCI’s watchlist for the head coach position.

Earlier, Langer stated that the job of India’s head coach would be very immense as it will have too much pressure.

The Aussie was asked if the Indian board had approached him for taking the job to which he replied: “It would almost be the biggest job in cricket — being the head coach of the Indian cricket team.

“One, because of the huge volume of cricket, the huge expectation. It would be a great challenge. It would be great fun and it would be a wonderful opportunity to win ICC titles.”

It is worth mentioning that the BCCI stated that applications must be submitted by 6 pm IST on May 27, 2024.