Kapil Dev views Gautam Gambhir as manager figure rather than coach in Team India

By Admin

19 Dec, 2025

Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev has offered a thoughtful perspective on the evolving role of the head coach in modern international cricket, particularly highlighting Gautam Gambhir’s influence in Team India. Speaking during the Indian Chamber of Commerce Centenary Session at a city hotel, the former World Cup–winning captain emphasized that Gambhir’s contribution goes far beyond technical coaching and is better described as that of a team manager and leader.

A modern approach to coaching
According to Kapil Dev, Gautam Gambhir plays a crucial role in shaping India’s plans, tactics, strategies and even team selection. However, Kapil believes that the idea of a head coach being a technical expert in every discipline is unrealistic at the international level.

He questioned how a single individual could technically coach specialists such as leg-spinners or wicketkeepers. Instead, Kapil stressed that the primary responsibility of a head coach is to manage players effectively, create clarity of thought and ensure a positive environment where individuals feel secure and motivated.

Building player confidence
Kapil Dev underlined that the real strength of a leader lies in boosting player confidence, especially during difficult phases. He noted that Gambhir’s role is to make players feel comfortable and supported, even when performances dip.

Reassuring players with words like “Yes, you can do better” can make a significant difference, particularly for younger cricketers navigating pressure at the highest level. When players feel trusted and backed, they are more likely to perform with freedom and belief.

Leadership beyond performance
Reflecting on his own captaincy, Kapil Dev explained that leadership is not just about celebrating top performers. Instead, it is about standing beside those who are struggling.

He shared that as captain, he preferred spending time with players going through poor form rather than only those scoring centuries. Whether over a meal or casual conversation, such gestures help players regain confidence and feel valued. For Kapil, putting the team together emotionally and mentally has always been a greater priority than individual statistics.

Ego-free teams create winners
Kapil Dev was categorical in his views on ego within a team setup. He stated that there is no place for individual ego if it outweighs the interests of the team.

According to him, no captain or senior player deserves a spot if personal pride comes before collective goals. He emphasized that a team must always be more important than any individual, regardless of seniority or reputation. Ego-driven leadership, he said, only weakens team unity and long-term success.

Mithali Raj on leadership maturity
Former India Women’s captain Mithali Raj, who was also present at the event, echoed similar sentiments while reflecting on her own journey as a leader. She acknowledged that her second stint as captain saw a significant shift in her approach.

Having matured over time, Mithali became more flexible and open to suggestions and differing opinions. She recognized that every player views the game differently, and accommodating those perspectives is essential for effective leadership. Her experience highlights how empathy and adaptability are key traits that develop with time and experience.

Conclusion
Kapil Dev’s remarks underline a broader truth about leadership in modern cricket. The head coach’s role is no longer limited to technical instruction but has evolved into that of a manager, mentor and motivator. Gautam Gambhir’s approach, as described by Kapil, aligns with this philosophy, focusing on empathy, confidence-building and team-first values.

Together with insights from Mithali Raj, the discussion reinforces that successful leadership whether in men’s or women’s cricket is built on understanding people, removing ego and creating an environment where every player feels supported and empowered.