Newly appointed India coach Gautam Gambhir has yet to formalise his salary contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), despite being poised to earn an eye-watering salary comparable to his predecessor, Rahul Dravid.
While the financial details are still being ironed out, sources within the BCCI indicate that Gambhir’s primary focus remains on the honour of leading the national team. This approach mirrors that of Ravi Shastri in 2014, who took charge without an immediate contract, trusting that the financial aspects would be settled in due course.
Rahul Dravid departure on high note
Rahul Dravid, who opted not to extend his tenure, concluded his role as head coach with the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 as his final assignment. Under Dravid’s guidance, Team India clinched their second T20 World Cup title, ending a significant ICC trophy drought by defeating South Africa by seven runs in the final.
With Dravid’s departure confirmed prior to the ICC event, Gambhir emerged as the prime candidate to succeed him, especially after a triumphant IPL season.
Guatam Gambhir success with Kolkata Knight Riders
Gambhir’s return to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a mentor saw the franchise clinch their third IPL title in 2024. Despite his limited coaching experience, having only mentored two IPL teams before this appointment, Gambhir is set to bring his on-field success and leadership skills to the national team.
His appointment comes with expectations of a salary package similar to that of his predecessor, Rahul Dravid.
Gautam Gambhir salary yet to be finalised: BCCI
Although Gautam Gambhir has been appointed, the specifics of his contract with the BCCI are still being finalised. According to a report by PTI, the financial details of his deal are the least of his concerns, as his primary focus is the honour of coaching the national team.
A BCCI source likened Gambhir’s situation to that of Ravi Shastri in 2014, who took charge as Director of Cricket without an immediate contract.
BCCI Source confirms
“For Gautam, it was important that he took charge, and salary and other stuff can be worked out as it’s not going anywhere. It is similar to the case of Ravi Shastri in 2014 when he was first made Director of Cricket over head coach Duncan Fletcher. The day Ravi joined, he didn’t even have a contract, and things worked out. In the case of Gautam, some finer details are being worked out. The salary will be in the same range as Rahul Dravid,” a BCCI source said.
Gambhir’s appointment as head coach marks a new chapter for the Indian cricket team, bringing in fresh perspectives while maintaining continuity in their pursuit of excellence on the international stage.