Gautam Gambhir to leave India coaching? Four IPL franchises offer mentor role - Reports
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Gautam Gambhir’s India head coach contract runs until 2027 ODI World Cup.
Indian Cricket Team head coach Gautam Gambhir could make a return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2028, with four franchises reportedly interested in bringing him into their coaching setup. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are among the teams that have already contacted the former India opener, while two other franchises have also shown interest.
According to a report by Abhishek Tripathi of Dainik Jagran, the four franchises are exploring the possibility of appointing Gautam Gambhir as a mentor or coach for the 2028 season. Some of these teams are also looking to make changes to their coaching setups ahead of the upcoming cycle.
Gambhir has previously worked with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a mentor. His successful stint with both franchises has made him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their coaching staff.
KKR and Rajasthan Royals among four IPL teams interested in Gautam Gambhir
Catch Every Update, Anytime, Anywhere
KKR and Rajasthan Royals are the two franchises specifically named in the report. Gambhir has a long association with Kolkata, having captained the team to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.
After retiring as a player, he returned to KKR as a mentor in 2024. The franchise went on to win their third IPL title under his guidance, ending a 10-year wait for the trophy.
Before returning to Kolkata, Gambhir worked with LSG in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. The franchise reached the playoffs in both editions under his mentorship.
The other two interested teams have not been named. However, the report described one as champion franchises in IPL history, while the other is still waiting to win their maiden title.
This has led to speculation that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) or Mumbai Indians (MI) could be the third franchise. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and LSG are among the possible options for the fourth team. However, their interest has not been confirmed.
Gambhir’s availability for the IPL 2028 season will depend on his existing contract with the Indian cricket team. His current tenure as head coach is scheduled to end after the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Which four IPL teams are interested in Gautam Gambhir for IPL 2028?
Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals are the two confirmed names mentioned in the report. The other two franchises have not been identified.
Could Gautam Gambhir return to KKR in IPL 2028?
Yes, KKR are reportedly interested in bringing Gambhir back. He previously guided the franchise to the IPL title as a mentor in 2024.
When does Gautam Gambhir’s India head coach contract end?
Gambhir’s current contract with the BCCI is scheduled to end after the 2027 ODI World Cup.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.