Gautam Gambhir’s Salary, Perks, and Benefits: What India’s New Head Coach Gets from BCCI

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially announced on Tuesday, July 9, that Gautam Gambhir is the new head coach of Team India. This former India batter was always the top choice to replace Rahul Dravid. While several media reports had confirmed Gambhir’s appointment earlier, the official announcement was finally made, confirming that he will take over from India’s tour of Sri Lanka.

🚨 NEWS 🚨

Mr Gautam Gambhir appointed as Head Coach – Team India (Senior Men).

Mr Gambhir will take charge from the upcoming away series against Sri Lanka where Team India are set to play 3 ODIs & 3 T20Is starting July 27, 2024.

All The Details 🔽 #TeamIndia | @GautamGambhir

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 9, 2024

Salary Negotiations

There were hints earlier that the delay in the announcement was due to salary negotiations. While Rahul Dravid, Gambhir’s predecessor, had an annual salary of Rs 12 crore, it is expected that Gambhir will be earning a higher salary.

Gautam Gambhir’s salary as India head coach still not confirmed despite official announcement – Report makes big claim#GautamGambhir #TeamIndia #Indiancricketteam https://t.co/q1b3oV1L4f pic.twitter.com/6Gui4ViW7Z

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) July 10, 2024

Gautam Gambhir’s Expected Salary

Gautam Gambhir has always been the number one choice after Rahul Dravid stepped down as the head coach of the Indian Cricket Men’s team. Several media reports had already confirmed Gambhir as the new head coach of Team India, but the delay was due to the BCCI negotiating Gambhir’s salary.

BCCI, one of the richest cricket boards in the world, pays the India head coach an annual salary between Rs 9-10 crore. Dravid was drawing a salary of ₹12 crore annually. It is speculated that Gambhir’s salary will be between ₹15-20 crore, considering his recent achievements. Under Gambhir’s mentorship, the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders lifted their third IPL trophy after 12 years.

Perks and Benefits for the India Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir will officially start his role as the head coach of Team India from the upcoming Sri Lanka Tour, starting on July 27. His tenure is expected to last until December 31, 2027. During his time, Gambhir will oversee three major ICC events: Champions Trophy 2025, T20 World Cup 2026, and ODI World Cup 2027. Additionally, he will manage all Indian international campaigns from 2024-2027, including the World Test Championships Final at Lords.

The head coach enjoys numerous perks and benefits. During overseas trips, the head coach travels in business class, with accommodation and laundry services paid by the BCCI. The head coach also receives daily allowances of $250 (nearly Rs 21,000), double the amount given before 2019.

Gautam Gambhir’s Salary as KKR Mentor

Since Gautam Gambhir took on the role of mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), there have been numerous rumors about his salary. Although the exact figures haven’t been officially revealed, sources indicate that Gambhir’s compensation is exceptionally high. In fact, it’s suggested that his salary might even surpass that of some of the top players in the league.

For example, Mitchell Starc was the most expensive player in the IPL 2024 auction, bought for a whopping 24.75 crores. However, it’s rumored that Gambhir’s salary as a mentor for KKR is even higher, reportedly around 25 crores. This substantial pay highlights the value KKR places on Gambhir’s experience and strategic insights, underlining his significant role in the team.

Gambhir’s Journey and Expectations

Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as head coach marks a new chapter in his impressive cricketing career. Known for his aggressive batting style and strategic skills, Gambhir brings a wealth of experience and fresh ideas. His coaching tenure will begin with India’s tour of Sri Lanka, where the team will play three ODIs and three T20Is starting July 27, 2024.

Collaborating with the National Cricket Academy (NCA)

A key part of Gambhir’s strategy will be collaborating with the NCA coaches. VVS Laxman, the head of cricket at the NCA, will play a crucial role in this partnership. Laxman is currently in Zimbabwe with the young T20 team but is expected to join discussions on the future roadmap once he returns. Gambhir will also work closely with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, and team captains Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya.

Upcoming Challenges

Gambhir’s first major challenge as head coach will be the tour of Australia, where India will play a five-Test series starting on the bouncy tracks of the Optus Stadium in Perth. The outcome of this series is crucial for India’s qualification in the World Test Championship. Additionally, the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan poses a geopolitical challenge that Gambhir, known for his firm stance on playing cricket in Pakistan, will have to navigate carefully.

India is my identity and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honoured to be back, albeit wearing a different hat. But my goal is the same as it has always been, to make every Indian proud. The men in blue shoulder the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians… pic.twitter.com/N5YyyrhXAI

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 9, 2024

Gambhir’s Vision

Expressing his enthusiasm, Gambhir stated, “I look forward to working closely with the BCCI, Head of Cricket – Mr. VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments.”

Gambhir aims to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors with a clear vision and determination. His tenure promises a mix of strategic planning and nurturing young talent, ensuring a bright future for Indian cricket.

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