Ashwin Highlights Distinct Coaching Styles of Gambhir and Dravid

In discussing the contrasting coaching styles of Gautam Gambhir and Rahul Dravid, Ravichandran Ashwin noted that Gambhir maintains a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the disciplined Dravid. It has been a little over two months since Gambhir assumed the role of India's head coach following Dravid's tenure. While the team's limited number of matches—including three T20s and three ODIs against Sri Lanka, along with a Test against Bangladesh—doesn't provide a comprehensive comparison, Ashwin's insights shed light on their differing approaches.

The all-rounder, who delivered a standout performance in the opening Test against Bangladesh, described Gambhir as a "relaxed" presence in the dressing room. He joked that Gambhir could be nicknamed "relaxed rancho," emphasising that there's little pressure under his guidance. "In the morning, during the team huddle, he’s very easygoing, encouraging players to join him without stress," Ashwin shared on his YouTube channel.

Contrasting this with Dravid’s methodical style, Ashwin recalled, "Rahul bhai was very particular; he wanted everything in order, even the placement of a water bottle had to be just right. He had a regimented approach and sought precision." However, Ashwin noted that Gambhir is more flexible, embodying a "relaxed order" that fosters camaraderie within the team.

As one of the few current players who played alongside Gambhir, along with prominent figures such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin has a unique perspective. Gambhir stepped into the head coach role after Dravid chose not to reapply following India’s T20 World Cup victory, with the BCCI announcing Gambhir as the successor in June.

Gambhir's initial outings as head coach have yielded mixed results—India triumphed in the T20I series but faced setbacks in the ODI series in Sri Lanka. The recent opening Test showcased Ashwin’s pivotal all-round contribution, coupled with Ravindra Jadeja’s determined 86, allowing the team to rebound from a difficult situation and establish a strong total of 376. Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional bowling further dismantled Bangladesh, who were all out for 149. In the second innings, returning players Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill each struck centuries, reinforcing India’s dominance.

The Indian team will gear up for the second and final Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur this Friday.