SL vs IND [WATCH]: Gautam Gambhir gets emotional as Rahul Dravid sends a happy message to the new coach

Indian cricket team will play Sri Lanka in the much-awaited three-match T20I series, starting on Saturday, July 27. The series marks the beginning of a new era for Indian cricket, as Gautam Gambhir officially begins his tenure as head coach, as well Suryakumar Yadav, the new T20I captain. These two will pass on this legacy Rahul Dravid again Rohit Sharmawho led India to their second T20 World Cup victory after 17 years.

Expectations are high from Gautam Gambhir

Hopes are rising for Gambhir, who has taken over coaching following his success Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), leading them to their third IPL title in 2024. Cricket fans and enthusiasts are eager to see how Gambhir will shape the future of the Indian team, building on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Dravid. With a reputation for toughness and a winning mentality, Gambhir is expected to bring a fresh perspective and competitive edge to the team.

Rahul Dravid shares a special message for Gambhir

Ahead of the T20I series, Gambhir received a heartfelt message from Dravid, whose shoes he is filling. In a surprise video message, Dravid reflected on the glory of winning the 2024 T20 World Cup under his tutelage and extended his best wishes to Gambhir.

“Hello, Gautam, and welcome to the most exciting job in our world as the coach of the Indian cricket team… I wish you that little bit of luck again. As you know, all of us coaches need to make ourselves look a little smarter and smarter than we really are,” Dravid says in the video.

Dravid recalled their time together, highlighting Gambhir’s dedication and drive. He added, “As a teammate, I saw you give everything on the field. As a hitting partner and playing partner, I have seen your tenacity and your refusal to give up. Throughout the IPL seasons, I have noticed your desire to win, your helpfulness in working with younger players, and your drive to bring out the best in your team on the field.”

Gambhir reacts to the heartwarming message

Gambhir was clearly touched by Dravid’s message, expressing his deep respect and appreciation for the former coach. He acknowledged the importance of receiving such a heartfelt message from someone he has always loved. Gambhir emphasized that his admiration for Dravid goes beyond their professional relationship; it comes from the deep respect he has for Dravid’s selflessness and unwavering commitment to Indian cricket.

“Look, I don’t know what to do because this message means a lot to me. And the reason is not that it comes from a person who has succeeded now or I have taken over, but from someone who I used to look up to when I was playing,” Gambhir said.

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Reflecting on Dravid’s contributions

Gambhir also looked at Dravid’s contributions to Indian cricket, describing him as the most dedicated cricketer he has ever played with. He praised Dravid for always putting the needs of Indian cricket above his own, serving as a role model not only for Gambhir but for the entire cricket team.

“I’ve always heard that thing. And I said it in many of my interviews. I think the most selfless cricketer I have ever played with, Rahul Bhai did anything and everything that Indian cricket required. So I think we can learn a lot from it, not only for me, but for the next generation and the current generation, how important Indian cricket is,” added Gambhir.

Here is the video:

Passing on the baton with ccc ace! 📝

In,
Gautam Gambhir ✉

From,
Rahul Dravid 🔊#TeamIndia | #SLVIND | @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/k33X5GKHm0

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 27, 2024

Gambhir’s commitment to uphold Dravid’s legacy

In his closing remarks, Gambhir expressed his commitment to uphold the values ​​and standards set by Dravid. He acknowledged the huge responsibility of filling Dravid’s shoes and the challenges that come with it. Gambhir has pledged to approach his new role with honesty and integrity, aiming to make not only the nation proud but also Dravid, a man he has always looked up to.

“Not me, not individuals, but what Indian cricket is. I feel, I guess, I don’t normally eat emotionally, but I think this message made me sad, which I often think about, but it’s a very good message. Hopefully, I can… They are big shoes to fill. Hopefully, I can do it with complete honesty, transparency, and hopefully, I can do the whole nation, and more importantly, the person I always look up to, Rahul Bhai,” Gambhir concluded.

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