'One of the Few Who Came Back at You': SA Legends Expect Gambhir to Bring in Aggression to Team India as New Head Coach

Following Gautam Gambhir being announced as the Head Coach of India’s senior men’s cricket team, South African legends like Dale Steyn and Jacques Kallis shared their opinions on the former India opener’s appointment for what will be a crucial role which dictates the future of Indian cricket.

Steyn looked back to his playing days when he faced Gambhir on several occasions on the international stage. He appreciated the aggressive side of his game and suggested that it could be something he brings into the new Indian team under Gambhir’s tenure.

Steyn said to Star Sports, “I’m a big fan of Gautam Gambhir. I love his aggression. He’s one of the few Indians I ever played against who came back at you, and I like that. I think he’s going to take that into the dressing room with guys like Virat and some of the other senior players who might not play as big a part anymore”.

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The legendary Proteas pacer felt that the rise of franchise leagues across the globe has led to the players developing friendly relations with each other which then impacts the kind of aggression being brought in when they are up against each other. Steyn likes Gambhir’s aggressive side which does not tend to cross the line as he maintains respect once the game is over.

Steyn commented, “We need guys who are a little bit more aggressive and play the game a little bit harder. We all seem to play in the leagues against each other, and we become quite friendly and friends”.

“I like the way that he’s fierce on the field but a gentleman off the field. He’s also streetwise, a very smart cricketer, and has a great cricket brain. So I think from that point of view, he’s going to be fantastic for them too,” he added.

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Speaking on Gambhir’s appointment was none other than the all-time great all-rounder, Kallis who like Steyn lauded his tenacity when on the field and believes that his experience on the international stage will be an added touch that the Indian team members can learn from.

“It’s great to see Gautam getting into the coaching side of things. He’s got a really good cricket brain. He’ll bring some fire and loves playing the game aggressively. I think he’ll bring that added touch, and the guys will certainly learn a lot from him. He’s got a lot to add and will bring significant value to that Indian side. I wish him all the best—not too much against us, but I’m sure he’ll do a fantastic job,” Kallis said.

Gambhir’s tenure as head coach is set to begin in their away series against Sri Lanka where Team India will be involved in a three-match T20I and ODI series starting from July 27.