Congress MP Shashi Tharoor met with Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, in Nagpur before the first T20I match against New Zealand. Tharoor commended Gambhir for handling the immense scrutiny that comes with leading the Indian cricket team and referred to him as an old friend.
Tharoor acknowledged the constant pressure Gambhir faces from public judgment daily but praised his calm demeanor and undaunted attitude. He also appreciated Gambhir’s leadership style as quietly determined and effective, wishing him success as India enters a crucial phase in their white-ball calendar.
The upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand holds significance for Team India’s preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026, commencing on February 7. India, the defending champions, aims to secure back-to-back titles after winning the trophy in 2024. New Zealand, fresh from a successful ODI series in India, seeks to maintain their momentum in the shortest format of the game.
