With Gautam Gambhir Around, ‘There Will Never Be a Dull Moment,’ Says Ajay Jadeja

Ajay Jadeja praises Gambhir: 'His presence keeps things lively'

In the forthcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, head coach Gautam Gambhir of India will, in the opinion of former batter Ajay Jadeja, strive for an aggressive approach and will not allow the opposition to seize the lead.

After hosting Bangladesh for two Test matches starting in Chennai on September 19, India will play three T20 Internationals (T20Is).

“His combative approach is quite evident. There will never be a dull moment with him around since he will always attempt something new, that much is certain. When questioned by reporters about the Indian team’s strategy under Gambhir for the forthcoming series, Jadeja responded, “He will do what he believes.”

“Gambhir is not the type to just sit back and watch things happen. He is going to venture out and attempt new things, much like how Suryakumar Yadav unexpectedly became captain. I am excited about what this year will bring in terms of enthusiasm.”

The 53-year-old Jadeja was chatting with the media outside of the Cricket Association of Bengal’s annual awards ceremony. He is most known for being a top ODI batter, having amassed 5359 runs from 196 matches at an average of 37.47.

When asked if he would recommend anything to Gambhir, Jadeja replied, “I hope he doesn’t take suggestions.” He is there because of what he did and the perspective he holds.

“I hope he doesn’t modify his approach or heed advice from others because what has shaped who you are is something you should stand by and believe in. He’s always capable of improving.”

Jadeja was the Afghanistan team’s mentor in India for the 2023 ODI World Cup.

India is a “far superior” squad, according to Jadeja, despite Bangladesh having just won a historic Test series in Pakistan.

“Any side that entered the game fresh off a victory would always believe they can win. However, there is currently a distinction between the cricket teams from India and Pakistan. The Indian squad is a far better one.

However, from Bangladesh’s perspective, they will think that since they defeated Pakistan, they should be able to defeat India as well. Even though we are superior, they will undoubtedly be difficult to handle. The circumstances are ideal because they bowl and play spin well.”

When asked about the chances for the Indian squad during the next Test series in Australia, which starts in November, Jadeja replied, “We have performed well in Australia before, but November is a long way off. Why shouldn’t we consider that we might repeat the action?

“We should only get better from there,” he stated.