Gautam Gambhir wants former KKR star as part of new coaching setup along with Abhishek Nayar

Newly appointed coach of the Indian Cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, wants one of his former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)  stars to be part of the backroom staff.  The name in question is none other than former Netherlands star Ryan Ten Doeschate. 

The 44-year-old was one of the most trusted players for Gautam Gambhir during his time with the three-time champion side. Earlier this year, the former KKR skipper had praised the Dutch star for being the ultimate team man during a pre-IPL event. 

Gautam Gambhir had said “When I talk about selflessness, I have never said this in 42 years of my career. And I wanted to say this. The greatest team man I ever played with, the most selfless human being, someone I can take a bullet for, someone who I can trust for life”

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The former India opener also said “I can tell you this because in 2011, my first game as a KKR captain, we only had four overseas (players) available. And this man had a fabulous 50-over World Cup. And we went to that game with only three overseas players. He was carrying drinks in that game with no disappointment on his face. He taught me selflessness”

Gautam Gambhir praises Rahul Dravid 

Speaking about Gautam Gambhir, the soon-to-be India coach was vocal in his praise for Rahul Dravid. Just after the announcement was confirmed the 42-year-old in a statement said “It is an absolute honour to serve my tricolour, my people, my country. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team of support staff for their exemplary run with the team. I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India”

The first assignment for Gautam Gambhir will be the series against Sri Lanka. Post that the team will head into a break before taking on Bangladesh in a two-match Test series. This will be followed by three Tests vs New Zealand at home. The biggest test will be the tour to Australia where India will play 5 matches. 

The statement released by Gautam Gambhir also read “I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role. Cricket has been my passion and I look forward to working closely with the BCCI, the Head of Cricket – Mr VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments”