Dinesh Karthik believes that Team India’s new head coach Gautam Gambhir will ensure a positive and relaxed dressing room atmosphere. Karthik highlighted Gambhir’s credentials and suitability for the role with the Men in Blue.
Gambhir, who replaced Rahul Dravid following India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup, is set to begin his tenure with India’s tour of Sri Lanka. The tour includes three T20Is and three ODIs.
In an interview with Cricbuzz, Karthik shared his thoughts on Gambhir’s new role (from 3:19):
“Gautam Gambhir has all the credentials to definitely take care of players, in terms of their mindset, prep, and most importantly, to keep a harmonious dressing room. I’ve heard that his dressing rooms are generally relaxed and very good, even though outwardly he feels like a different person. That is the case with Gautam Gambhir the coach. And, he’s got a set of support staff who he really believes in.”
Despite Gambhir’s limited experience as a head coach, he has demonstrated impressive leadership as a mentor in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He guided Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a title-winning campaign and helped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) reach the playoffs in consecutive seasons.
Karthik also commented on India’s new T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav. He suggested that the Sri Lanka series would be an ideal opportunity for Yadav to start his captaincy tenure on a high note:
“Good luck to Suryakumar Yadav. He’s going to be the captain of the ship for two years, is what I’ve heard. So, here’s his opportunity to do something special. Sri Lanka tour always, not the strongest of teams, so one where he can set foot and steer the ship in the direction that he wants to along with Mr. Gautam Gambhir.”
Suryakumar Yadav will take over from Rohit Sharma, who announced his retirement from T20Is after leading India to a 2024 T20 World Cup victory.
“I Expect Nothing Less Than a Bare Minimum of 2-1” – Dinesh Karthik Backs India to Win T20I Series Against Sri Lanka
In the same interview, Dinesh Karthik shared his prediction for the three-match T20I series between India and Sri Lanka. He expects Suryakumar Yadav’s side to win the series by a margin of 2-1.
Highlighting the opportunity for India’s young talent to shine, Karthik stated (from 1:54):
“I expect nothing less than a bare minimum of 2-1 that India is going to win. It is a very strong side, the current T20 side, and a lot of young boys who’ve done so well in IPL, that’s a great opportunity for them, and I’m sure they’re waiting for their opportunity.”
The T20I series opener between India and Sri Lanka will take place at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, July 27.
