Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 19: India’s first World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has weighed in on the debate surrounding Gautam Gambhir’s working style as head coach, saying that in modern-day international cricket, the role is less about technical coaching and more about effective player management.
Gambhir has come under criticism following India’s 0-2 Test series loss to South Africa, with questions raised over frequent player rotation and the use of part-time options. Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s ICC Centenary Session on Thursday, Kapil said the term “coach” itself is often misunderstood in today’s game.
“Today the word ‘coach’ is used very loosely. Gautam Gambhir cannot really be a coach. He can be a manager of the team,” Kapil said. “When I talk about a coach, I think of the people who taught me in school and college. Those were my coaches.”
Kapil explained that at the international level, players are specialists and do not require technical guidance from a head coach. “How can you be a coach when someone is already a leg-spinner or a wicketkeeper? How can Gautam coach a leg-spinner or a wicketkeeper?” he asked.
Instead, Kapil stressed that managing personalities and creating the right environment is the most important responsibility. “Management is more important. As a manager, you have to encourage players and make them believe they can do it. Young players look up to you,” he said.
According to the former all-rounder, a coach or captain’s primary job is to provide reassurance and confidence. “The job is to give confidence to the team and always tell them, ‘you can do better’. That’s how I see it,” Kapil added.
Reflecting on his own leadership style, Kapil said he consciously focused on supporting players going through lean patches. “If someone scores a hundred, I don’t need to have dinner with him. I would rather spend time with those who are not performing,” he said.
Kapil emphasised that building belief in underperforming players is crucial for team success. “You need to give them confidence. As a captain, your role is not just about your own performance, but about keeping the team together,” he said.