Gambhir ahead of Bangladesh Tests: ‘Winning style is the best style’
NEW DELHI: India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, addressed the media in Chennai ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which is set to begin on Thursday. Gambhir emphasized that India’s focus will be on playing with intent, leaving no room for complacency against a Bangladesh side that recently claimed a victory over Pakistan.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining their winning ways, Gambhir remarked, “The winning style is the best style.”
He underscored the significance of India’s senior players, particularly praising the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, who are expected to be crucial in India’s strategy. “We are fortunate to have Ashwin and Jadeja fit and available,” Gambhir said, recognizing their ability to dominate on spin-friendly pitches.
As India have a deep pool of talent, Gambhir hinted that young players like Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel may have to wait for their opportunities, indicating that experienced players KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant will continue to be pivotal in the middle order.
Gambhir, who shares a history with many of the senior players in the squad from his own playing days, spoke about the strong relationships he has built with them, which he aims to carry forward in his coaching role.
“I have played cricket with a lot of guys in this team. My relationship with all the senior players is good,” Gambhir noted.
Despite their dominant standing, Gambhir made it clear that India will not underestimate Bangladesh. “We respect Bangladesh but we will play the game that a champion side does,” he stated, emphasizing the need for India to assert their strengths throughout the series.
Reflecting on the evolution of Indian cricket, Gambhir noted a shift from the historically batting-dominant approach to a more balanced focus on bowling. He credited bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ashwin, and Jadeja for turning India into a formidable bowling unit.
“India was a batting-obsessed nation, but Bumrah, Ashwin, Shami, and Jadeja turned it into a bowlers’ game,” Gambhir added.
The coach reserved special praise for Bumrah, calling him “the world’s best fast bowler” and recognizing his ability to change the course of a match at any stage.
Addressing rumors about players prioritizing IPL over national duties, Gambhir dismissed such notions, affirming that the current team is fully committed to representing India.
He also expressed confidence in India’s batting, particularly against spin, highlighting the team’s ability to handle any challenges posed by opposition bowlers.
With Gambhir’s clear focus on maintaining a champion mindset and maximizing the squad’s strengths, Team India looks set to enter the Test series with a determined and focused approach, aiming to extend their winning momentum against Bangladesh.
