The BCCI’s Announcement of Gautam Gambhir as Head Coach Delayed Due to “Salary Negotiation”: Report

Gautam Gambhir’s Appointment as India’s Head Coach Delayed Over Salary Negotiations

The appointment of Gautam Gambhir as Team India’s head coach has reportedly hit a snag over salary negotiations. The position remains vacant following Rahul Dravid’s conclusion as coach after the T20 World Cup 2024. Currently, VVS Laxman, head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is temporarily filling the role for India’s second-string team in Zimbabwe for a five-match T20I series. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has interviewed both Gautam Gambhir and WV Raman for the role, with Gambhir expected to be appointed.

However, the official announcement has been delayed. BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed that the new coach will assume duties from the Sri Lanka series onward. According to the Indian Express, the delay is due to ongoing negotiations between Gambhir and the board regarding salary terms.

Following Dravid’s departure, the coaching staff including batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip have also ended their stints. Once Gambhir’s appointment is finalized, the board will focus on hiring additional coaching staff.

Reports suggest that Gambhir will have autonomy in selecting his support staff. Given Gambhir’s experience as a top-level opening batter during his playing career, the board may not appoint a separate batting coach.