NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has embarked on a new journey as the head coach of the Indian men’s national team. This role promises to be a rollercoaster ride, filled with challenges and scrutiny.

As he takes over the reins, several aspects of his coaching tenure will be closely watched.

Firstly, Gambhir’s intense and flamboyant personality will be scrutinized, especially in comparison to the calm demeanour of his predecessor, Rahul Dravid. His ability to adapt his approach and connect with the players will be crucial in earning their loyalty and fostering a positive team environment.

Secondly, Gambhir’s coaching acumen and strategic prowess will be put to the test. His successful stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he nurtured talents like Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Suryakumar Yadav, has demonstrated his ability to read the game and make bold decisions.

However, coaching a national team presents a different set of challenges, and his ability to navigate the complexities of international cricket will be closely watched.

Thirdly, Gambhir’s man-management skills will be scrutinized, particularly in dealing with the team’s superstars and their egos. As a former player himself, he understands the dynamics of a dressing room, but his ability to strike the right balance between assertiveness and diplomacy will be crucial in maintaining a harmonious environment.

Furthermore, Gambhir’s approach to different formats of the game will be closely observed. While his Test match performances in places like Napier, Wellington, and Durban showcase his understanding of the longer format, his ability to adapt his coaching methods to suit the demands of each format will be a key factor in the team’s success.

Additionally, Gambhir’s relationships with key players, such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, will be closely watched. His history with Kohli and his ability to work seamlessly with Sharma, who will lead the team in at least two formats, will be crucial in fostering a cohesive and successful team environment.

Gambhir’s ability to handle criticism and maintain a thick skin will be tested. Known for his outspoken nature and unwavering opinions, he will need to develop a resilient mindset to navigate the challenges and scrutiny that come with coaching the Indian national team.