'How can Gambhir be a coach to a leg spinner or a wicketkeeper?': Kapil Dev backs manager-style leadership in Team India

Speaking at the ICC Centenary Session in Kolkata on Thursday, Kapil said Gautam Gambhir, the current head coach of Team India, cannot be a coach in the traditional sense but is better suited to the role of a manager at the highest level.

“Coach is a very common word today. Gautam Gambhir can’t be a coach; he can be a manager to manage the team. Coaches are people from whom players learn in school and college,” Kapil said.

“How can someone be a coach to, let’s say, a leg-spinner or a wicketkeeper? How can Gautam be a coach to a leg-spinner or a wicketkeeper? I think you can only manage, and that’s more important. As a manager, you encourage players and give them confidence, because young boys look up to you,” India’s first World Cup-winning captain added.

Kapil Dev in conversation with Jatin Sapru. Photo: PR Team

Kapil’s remarks come amid India’s inconsistent performances across formats since Gambhir took charge.

The former opener has faced criticism from cricket experts following India’s disappointing home season, which included whitewash defeats by New Zealand and South Africa.

India also endured a tough tour of Australia before managing to level the series in England, marking a difficult start to Gambhir’s tenure as head coach.

However, India’s performances in limited-overs cricket have been more encouraging, with the team winning both the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup during the same period.