With Gautam Gambhir at the helm as India’s head coach following the triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup, a new era of Indian cricket has begun. Gambhir, known for his no-nonsense approach and a keen eye for impactful players, has a vision that transcends mere statistics. His recent success as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor, where he led them to an IPL title in 2024, has cemented his reputation as a strategist who values performance and potential over numbers. With stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja announcing their retirements from T20 internationals and Suryakumar Yadav stepping up as the new captain, the stage is set for fresh faces to rise and shine. Here are five underachievers who are expected to get a long run under Gambhir’s stewardship:
1. RIYAN PARAG
Riyan Parag, a promising all-rounder, had a sensational breakthrough season with Rajasthan Royals in 2024, amassing over 500 runs. His explosive batting and newfound bowling prowess, highlighted by his career-best figures of 3/5 in the second T20I against Sri Lanka, have made him a valuable asset. Despite his previous inconsistencies, Parag’s recent performances have caught the eye of Gambhir, who values match-winning capabilities. Gambhir’s philosophy of nurturing talent aligns perfectly with Parag’s potential. The young cricketer's aggressive batting style and ability to contribute with the ball make him a versatile player for the limited-overs format. Under Gambhir’s guidance, Parag is expected to refine his skills and become a mainstay in India’s white-ball squads. Gambhir’s emphasis on impact over mere statistics will likely see Parag getting ample opportunities to prove his worth and develop into a consistent performer.
2. SARFARAZ KHAN
This story is from the August 2024 edition of Cricket Today.
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This story is from the August 2024 edition of Cricket Today.
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