Gautam Gambhir becomes first India head coach to join ‘A’ team for overseas series

As international cricket takes a brief pause for the Indian team following the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy, players disperse to their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. However, newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir is set to get back to action much sooner than expected. In a first-of-its-kind move, Gambhir reportedly plans to travel with the India ‘A’ team for their overseas assignment ahead of the senior squad’s tour of England in June.

Over the years, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has delegated India ‘A’ and U19 team responsibilities to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) coaches. Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman have been among the most notable figures to guide these junior teams before transitioning into senior roles. However, no head coach of the senior team, including Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, has accompanied India ‘A’ on an overseas tour while still holding the top job. Gambhir is set to break this trend.

Reports said that Gambhir has already expressed his interest in the BCCI, emphasizing the importance of closely analyzing the nation’s red-ball talent pool. Since India’s underwhelming campaign in Australia, the former left-handed opener has been eager to strengthen the Test setup. His decision to travel with India ‘A’ aligns with his vision of ensuring a strong talent pipeline for the senior team.

A BCCI source said, "Gambhir has been in discussions with the BCCI since he returned from Australia. He has expressed his desire to travel with the India 'A' team to get a clearer view of the reserve pool." The source also highlighted how Gambhir’s assertiveness in squad selection played a crucial role in India’s recent Champions Trophy victory. With such a proactive approach, the head coach is expected to have a bigger say in future team selections.

Apart from tracking emerging talents, Gambhir is reportedly concerned about the limited number of India ‘A’ tours conducted in recent years. Since Rahul Dravid departed from the NCA, there have been only a few ‘A’ series, mostly as shadow tours for major bilateral series. Gambhir wants to revive these tours, believing that they are crucial in bridging the gap between domestic cricket and the senior national team.

His upcoming visit to England with the India ‘A’ squad is likely to set a precedent for future head coaches. While it remains unclear whether he will travel in an advisory capacity or take an active coaching role, his presence will undoubtedly influence the development of India’s future Test cricketers. Gambhir’s approach signals a new era in Indian cricket, where nurturing young talent is as much a priority as winning at the highest level.