“One of the few Indians that I have played against that kinda came back at you” – Dale Steyn hails Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India coach

Former South African gun fast bowler Dale Steyn feels Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s head coach is a step in the right direction by the BCCI. After Rahul Dravid’s tenure came to a close, following India’s World Cup triumph, Gambhir has been handed over the coaching baton.

Meanwhile, Gambhir is well known for his aggressive approach and Steyn feels the former Indian opener is the right choice for the head coach role.

Gambhir also took Kolkata Knight Riders to Indian Premier League 2024 title as a mentor. Furthermore, Gambhir was part of India’s T20 World Cup 2007 and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph as a player.

Dale Steyn said on Star Sports, “I am a big fan of Gautam Gambhir. I love his aggression. He is one of the few Indians that I have played against that kinda came back at you. And I liked that. I think that he has taken in the dressing room with guys like Virat Kohli and some of the other senior players might not play a big part anymore, I am not too sure. I don’t want to say they are completely out.”

Steyn feels there is a need of aggressive personalities like Gautam Gambhir in world cricket.

“Not just in India but world cricket. They need guys that are a little more aggressive. They play the game a little harder. We all seem to play in the league against each other and we become quite friendly and friends. I like the way he’s fierce on the field but he’s a gentleman off the field. Then also a street wise and very smart cricketer and got a great cricket brain. So, I think from that point of view he’s gonna be fantastic for them too,” said Steyn.

On the other hand, former South African captain Graeme Smith, added that Gambhir has a really good cricketing brain and he is going to add a lot of value to the team.

“Great to see guys like him going to the coaching side of things. He’s got a really good cricket brain on him. He’ll bring some fire. He loves playing the game aggressively. I think he will bring that added touch in that. The guys will certainly learn a lot from him and he’s got a lot to add. He’s gonna add a lot of value to the Indian side. I am sure he’s gonna do a fantastic job and the players will certainly learn a lot from him,” said Smith.

The upcoming Sri Lanka tour will be Gambhir’s first assignment as India’s chief coach.