In a significant development for Indian cricket, Gautam Gambhir has been named the new head coach of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team, succeeding Rahul Dravid. The announcement, made by BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Tuesday, comes as India gears up for a challenging series against Sri Lanka starting on July 27, which includes three ODIs and three T20Is.
Gambhir’s Role and Upcoming ICC Tournaments
Under Gambhir’s stewardship, India is set to compete in five major ICC tournaments over the next three years. These include the Champions Trophy in 2025 and potentially the World Test Championship final later that same year, subject to India’s qualification. Additionally, India will vie for the T20 World Cup in 2026 and the ODI World Cup in 2027, with another potential World Test Championship final also on the horizon in 2027.
Salary and Compensation
Gambhir’s appointment was reportedly delayed due to extended salary negotiations. While the exact salary details have not been disclosed, sources indicate that his remuneration will be comparable to Rahul Dravid’s previous package. According to reports by Times Now, Gambhir is expected to earn approximately Rs 12 crore annually.
Daily Allowance and Benefits
In addition to his salary, Gambhir will receive a daily allowance of Rs 21,000 during international tours, as per the Economic Times. He will also enjoy business class travel with the team and top-tier accommodation, consistent with the perks typically granted to India’s head coach.
Gautam Gambhir’s Cricket Legacy and Net Worth
Cricket Career Highlights
Gautam Gambhir’s distinguished cricket career includes 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is for India. He was instrumental in India’s triumphs in the 2007 T20 World Cup final and the 2011 ODI World Cup final. Gambhir also led the Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014 and mentored them to a third title in 2024.
Financial Status
Beyond his cricketing achievements, Gambhir has seen substantial financial success, with an estimated net worth of around Rs 265 crore, according to Times Now and other sources. His income tax returns, highlighted by Mint, showed an annual income of approximately Rs 12.40 crore during his political career with the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019, marking him as one of Delhi’s wealthiest candidates in the Lok Sabha elections.
Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as the head coach marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. With a rich cricketing legacy and significant upcoming challenges, Gambhir’s leadership is poised to drive the team towards new heights in the international arena.
Stay tuned for more updates on Gambhir’s journey and India’s upcoming series. Follow us for the latest news, insights, and exclusive content on Indian cricket.