Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has received an overwhelming response to its search for the next head coach of the Indian men's cricket team, with over 3,000 applications pouring in. The BCCI invited interested candidates to apply through a Google form earlier this month, and the deadline for submissions closed on May 27.However, the BCCI now faces the challenge of sifting through numerous fake applications, with imposters using the names of cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, as well as prominent political figures like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah."Last year too, the BCCI received such a response where imposters applied, and the story is similar this time," an unnamed BCCI official told the Indian Express. "The reason the BCCI had to invite applications on Google forms is it's easy to scrutinize the names of applicants in one sheet."Despite the influx of fake applications, the BCCI has confirmed that Rahul Dravid, the current head coach, has opted not to reapply for the role. Dravid's tenure will conclude after the T20 World Cup 2024, and he has expressed a desire to prioritize spending time with his family.While the BCCI has not yet disclosed the names of genuine applicants, speculation abounds regarding potential candidates. Former cricketers like Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, and Stephen Fleming are reportedly under consideration.The new head coach will have a three-and-a-half-year term, starting from July 1, 2024, and ending on December 31, 2027. The job description outlines the need for a willingness to meet the work expectations and pressures associated with handling marquee athletes, underscoring the magnitude of the position.

Gautam Gambhir's move from Lucknow Super Giants to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024 was not a sudden decision, but rather the culmination of years of discussions between Gambhir and KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan. According to a report in Dainik Jagaran, Gambhir and Khan had been meeting regularly at Khan's residence since 2018.During these meetings, Khan reportedly offered Gambhir a "blank cheque" to join KKR for the next 10 years. Gambhir, who had led KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, was enticed by the offer and decided to leave Lucknow despite having spent two successful seasons with the franchise.Gambhir's departure from Lucknow came as a surprise to owner Sanjeev Goenka, who was unaware of the ongoing discussions between Gambhir and Khan. However, Gambhir's decision to join KKR was a strategic move that has paid off handsomely.In his first season with KKR, Gambhir guided the team to a remarkable IPL triumph. His leadership and tactical acumen were instrumental in KKR's success, and he has quickly become a fan favorite in Kolkata.Now, Gambhir faces a crossroads in his career. He is reportedly on the BCCI's shortlist to replace Rahul Dravid as India head coach. However, he has also committed to KKR for the next 10 years.If Gambhir accepts the India head coach job, he will have to step down from his role at KKR. This would be a significant loss for KKR, who have benefited greatly from Gambhir's leadership and experience.The BCCI is eager to secure Gambhir's services as India head coach, but they may face competition from KKR. Khan is determined to keep Gambhir at KKR for the long term, and he may offer him a lucrative contract extension to persuade him to stay.Ultimately, the decision of whether to accept the India head coach job or remain at KKR is up to Gambhir. He will need to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making a decision.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious in the IPL 2024, claiming their third title with an emphatic eight-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. The triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for KKR, who had endured a decade-long trophy drought.The team's success was largely attributed to their bowling prowess, as they restricted SRH to a mere 113 runs. Sunil Narine, the in-form all-rounder, played a pivotal role, opening the batting and contributing with both bat and ball.KKR's mentor, Gautam Gambhir, who had returned to the franchise with the aim of ending their title drought, was overjoyed with the victory. He had previously expressed his desire to lift the trophy with the team, and his words proved prophetic.Nitish Rana, who played a crucial role in the chase, revealed that Gambhir had sent him a message expressing his belief in the team's potential. "I want to share one short story that when GG bhaiya was named the mentor, I sent him a long message as I was really happy. But he replied saying, 'Thank you but I would be happy if we stand at the podium with the trophy in our hands.' Today is that day and I will never forget that message," Rana said.Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, who joined the team at the behest of leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, was equally ecstatic. "It means everything. I started playing IPL in the first season and it has taken me 16 years for the first title after two finals. I am really happy for the boys. I cannot express how happy I am," Nayar said.Venkatesh Iyer, who top-scored in the chase with an unbeaten 52, praised Nayar's contributions. "Really happy with it. As Varun mentioned, Abhishek Nayar deserves all the credit in the world," Iyer said.Andre Russell, who had faced criticism in the previous season, proved to be a vital cog in KKR's triumph. "No words to describe. It means so much. I am happy that all of us were very disciplined and worked towards one goal. This franchise has done a lot for me. It's a big gift from all of us to them," Russell said.Rinku Singh, who had been with KKR for seven years, was overjoyed to finally lift the trophy. "Outstanding feeling right now. My dream of seven years is complete. Finally I will lift the trophy. I am proud of my whole team and GG sir. It was God's plan," Singh said.Pacer Vaibhav Arora, who impressed alongside Harshit Rana, was happy to contribute to the team's success. "My role is to take wickets with the new ball. After that the spinners were doing their jobs. So today also the aim was to take wickets in the powerplay, which happened as well," Arora said.Bowling coach Bharat Arun praised the team's resilience and highlighted the impact of Mitchell Starc's inclusion. "I think it was pretty tough, the last two years. It was touch and go - we didn't qualify. It needed a lot of introspection and now we can savour this moment. He (Harshit Rana) has been outstanding. It's about backing your strengths," Arun said.Arun also lauded the decision to open with Narine, which was proposed by Gambhir. "Spinners mature with age, and with Sunny and Varun bowling in tandem, it was superb. He (Narine) brought a totally different dimension to our batting. It was Gautam who insisted that he opened and it paid dividends," Arun said.Opener-keeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who joined KKR late in the season, was delighted to be part of the winning team. "My mom is watching from the home. She is feeling good now. I asked mom before the match if she wanted anything. She said just the win. When Salt was playing, I wasn't expecting to get a chance but I knew it's a long tournament and I needed to be ready. Once I got the chance, I was well prepared," Gurbaz said.The KKR camp was abuzz with excitement and plans for celebrations. "I cannot tell how happy I am," said Harshit Rana. "It's yet to sink in yet. Maybe it will after the party at night," added Angkrish Raghuvanshi.All-rounder Ramandeep Singh said he would be busy selecting songs for the party. "I am really happy. We worked really hard for it, so feeling really happy. It's a great environment. Poora gaah payeya hoeya hai (We have had a ball). I am the DJ, I play the song people demand," Singh said.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has closed the application deadline for the position of Team India head coach, with Gautam Gambhir emerging as a leading candidate. However, both the BCCI and Gambhir have remained tight-lipped about the situation.Gambhir's name has gained significant traction, particularly after his successful stint as captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders, who won their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title on Sunday. However, the BCCI has not yet made any official statements, indicating that they may not have a wide range of high-caliber candidates to choose from.Notably, no notable foreign coach has applied for the post, as BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the board's preference for someone who has risen through the ranks and understands the domestic structure. The BCCI's primary target was reportedly VVS Laxman, the National Cricket Academy head, but he is believed to be uninterested in a full-time position that requires him to be available for 10 months a year.Sources within the BCCI have indicated that the board is not in a hurry to make a decision, as the team will be busy with the World T20 in June. Additionally, senior players will be rested from tours of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, allowing NCA-based senior coaches to accompany the team.Another factor to consider is Gambhir's close relationship with Kolkata Knight Riders principal owner Shah Rukh Khan. Leaving an IPL team that has been a part of his identity for the former India opener may not be an easy decision.Furthermore, the BCCI is reportedly seeking input from senior India players, who are currently in New York, on whether Gambhir would be a suitable replacement for Rahul Dravid.

Gautam Gambhir's transformative leadership has propelled Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title in 2024. As the mentor of the franchise, Gambhir has instilled a winning mindset and made strategic decisions that have paid dividends.Gambhir's return to KKR this season marked a turning point for the team. His experience as a two-time IPL-winning captain (with KKR in 2012 and 2014) proved invaluable. He brought a fresh perspective and a relentless pursuit of excellence to the team.Under Gambhir's guidance, KKR underwent a tactical overhaul. He emphasized the importance of adaptability, flexibility, and a never-say-die attitude. The team's performance improved significantly, culminating in their triumph on Sunday.Gambhir's influence extended beyond the field. He fostered a positive and supportive environment within the team, encouraging players to believe in themselves and their abilities. His motivational speeches and unwavering belief in the team's potential inspired the players to perform at their best.KKR's victory is a testament to Gambhir's strategic acumen and leadership skills. His ability to identify and nurture talent, coupled with his unwavering determination, has transformed the franchise into a formidable force in the IPL.After the match, KKR vice-captain Nitish Rana acknowledged Gambhir's pivotal role in the team's success. "GG bhaiya's message to me when he was named mentor was that he would be happy if we stood on the podium with the trophy in our hands. Today is that day," Rana said.KKR star Rinku Singh also expressed his gratitude to Gambhir. "I am proud of my whole team and GG sir. It was God's plan," he said.Gambhir's leadership has not only brought glory to KKR but has also left an enduring legacy in the IPL. His ability to inspire and motivate players, combined with his strategic brilliance, has set a new benchmark for franchise management in the league.

KKR's Triumphant Victory: Shah Rukh Khan's Heartfelt Kiss for Gautam GambhirKolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 final, securing their third IPL title. The triumph was marked by an emotional moment between co-owner Shah Rukh Khan and mentor Gautam Gambhir, who shared a heartfelt kiss amidst the jubilant celebrations.Gambhir, who captained KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, played a crucial role in guiding the team to victory. His strategic insights, leadership skills, and ability to motivate the players were instrumental in KKR's successful campaign.The match witnessed a sensational opening spell from Mitchell Starc, who helped KKR bowl out Hyderabad for IPL's lowest total of 113 in a final. Starc's figures of 2-14 showcased his exceptional bowling skills.Kolkata's batsmen had an easy task, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Venkatesh Iyer forming a 91-run partnership to lead the team to victory with 9.3 overs to spare.The victory was a testament to the strong bond within the KKR family. Shah Rukh Khan's kiss for Gambhir symbolized the deep respect and gratitude he holds for the mentor's unwavering dedication.

Mitchell Starc's Redemption: From Trolling to TriumphWhen Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir acquired Australian speedster Mitchell Starc for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore in the IPL 2022 auction, it raised eyebrows. Starc's initial performances were underwhelming, leading to criticism and mockery.However, as the tournament progressed, the 34-year-old rediscovered his rhythm. In the playoffs, he delivered two exceptional performances, silencing his detractors. In Qualifier 1 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Starc claimed three wickets for 23 runs.In the IPL Final against the same opposition, Starc once again showcased his brilliance. He returned figures of 2 for 14, while fellow quicks Andre Russell and Harshit Rana shared five wickets. SRH was dismissed for a paltry 113, the lowest total in an IPL final since 2013.Gambhir's faith in Starc was vindicated, and he was widely praised for his decision. The initial skepticism transformed into admiration and respect for the KKR mentor.Starc's resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the initial setbacks, he remained focused and worked hard to regain his form. His performances in the playoffs and final proved that he is still one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world.The KKR victory is a collective effort, but Starc's contribution cannot be overstated. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace made him a formidable weapon for the Kolkata franchise.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively seeking a new head coach for the men's national team, and several prominent former cricketers have emerged as potential candidates. Among the top Indian contenders are VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir, while international names like Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, and Stephen Fleming have also been linked to the role.However, it is reported that Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir is the frontrunner for the position. According to Dainik Jagaran, Gambhir is eager to take up the job despite being in his first year as KKR mentor. However, he has one condition: he wants a "selection guarantee" before applying.Gambhir is reportedly unwilling to simply be an applicant for the post. He wants to be assured of his selection as Rahul Dravid's replacement before submitting his application. The deadline for applications is May 27, and it is unclear how many potential coaches have expressed interest.The BCCI has denied reaching out to Ponting and Langer, despite claims from the duo that they were approached but declined the offer. If Gambhir does apply and is selected, he will have to step down from his role as KKR mentor.Gambhir's impressive performance as KKR mentor has significantly boosted his chances of becoming India's head coach. Under his guidance, the franchise has shown remarkable resurgence in IPL 2023.

Kolkata Knight Riders: From Underdogs to Champions with Gautam GambhirTwo-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face off against 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final of IPL 2024 in Chennai on Sunday. Ahead of the highly anticipated clash, KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan has reflected on the franchise's journey from underdogs to champions, crediting former skipper Gautam Gambhir for their success.In an interview with Star Sports, Khan recalled the early days of KKR, when the team struggled to find its footing in the IPL. "We had the nicest set of team in the world, but we kept on losing only again and again," he said. "I remember some expert talking this. It used to hurt."However, everything changed with the arrival of Gambhir as captain in 2011. Under his leadership, KKR transformed into a formidable force, winning the IPL title in 2012 and 2014. "To come back with GG (Gautam Gambhir) and do this was outstanding," Khan said. "It taught us how to lose but never be losers and never give up hope. Sports teaches you that."Gambhir's impact on KKR went beyond his on-field performances. He instilled a winning mentality in the team, emphasizing the importance of hard work, determination, and never giving up. "He was a leader who led by example," Khan said. "He was a fighter, and he never gave up. He taught us how to win, but more importantly, he taught us how to lose with dignity."KKR's success under Gambhir's leadership is a testament to the power of belief and the importance of having a strong leader. The franchise has since become one of the most successful in the IPL, and their journey from underdogs to champions is an inspiration to all.