Ajay Jadeja praises Gautam Gambhir's approach ahead of Bangladesh Tests
What's the story
Gautam Gambhir's role as India's head coach will be critical in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, starting on September 19. The Indian team is reconvening after a break of over a month, with preparations for the return to red-ball cricket already underway. All squad members, except Sarfaraz Khan who is participating in the Duleep Trophy's second round, have joined the training sessions.
Coaching style
Gambhir's aggressive approach expected to influence team strategy
Gambhir, known for his bold tactics, started his tenure as head coach during India's Sri Lanka tour. Former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja anticipates that Gambhir will encourage the team to take charge from the beginning against Bangladesh. "It is very clear, his approach is aggressive," Jadeja told PTI. "One thing is sure, there will never be a dull moment with him around."
Series significance
India-Bangladesh series: A test of dominance in longest format
The upcoming series against Bangladesh is a significant opportunity for Gambhir and India to establish their supremacy in the longest format. This follows mixed outcomes in the T20Is and ODIs versus Sri Lanka, where India triumphed 3-0 in the shortest format but lost 0-2 in ODIs. Jadeja emphasized that Gambhir "will not be somebody who will sit back and let things flow."
Upcoming competition
Bangladesh pose challenge after recent victory over Pakistan
Bangladesh, also known as the 'Tigers,' are entering the series with a morale boost after a 2-0 clean sweep against Pakistan. Despite this, Jadeja remains confident about India's superiority. "Any team which has come just after winning will always think they can win," he said. "But there is a difference between the Pakistan team at the moment with the India cricket team."