Gambhir’s Greatest Innings: Finest Performances of the Head Coach

Already an Indian Cricket icon, thanks to his days as a player, Gautam Gambhir now attempts to replicate that success in his new role as head coach of the national side.

If early results and performances are any guide, Gambhir’s India side will entertain sports fans and be a popular choice with punters assessing the best betting sign up offers.

Gambhir’s coaching chapter is yet to be written, but here we look back on seven of his finest knocks with the bat – all of which highlighted his tenacity, reliability, and ability to perform under the highest pressure.

1. 97 vs Sri Lanka - 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup Final

Gautam Gambhir’s innings of 97 in the 2011 ICC World Cup Final against Sri Lanka stands as one of the most celebrated knocks in Indian cricket history. Chasing a challenging total of 275, India were left reeling after losing Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag early in the innings. Gambhir’s resolute knock steadied the ship and gave India the platform it needed for a historic chase. His partnership with MS Dhoni, who finished the game with his iconic six, was crucial in securing India’s first World Cup title in 28 years. Though Gambhir fell short of a century, his knock was invaluable in India's success on the grandest stage.

2. 206 vs Australia - Delhi, 2008 (Test Match)

One of Gambhir's finest Test innings came in 2008 when India faced Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In the Delhi Test, Gambhir showcased his ability to excel in the long format with a monumental 206 - his highest Test score. Battling a world-class Australian attack, Gambhir was both aggressive and composed. His innings represented a masterclass in wearing down the opposition bowlers and setting the foundation for a huge first-innings total. This innings was a testament to his stamina, concentration, and technique, especially against fast bowlers like Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson. His double century helped India secure a crucial draw, and they eventually won the series 2-0.

3. 150 vs Sri Lanka - Colombo, 2009 (Test Match)

In 2009, Gambhir played a stunning innings of 150 against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Sri Lanka had posted a mammoth 760/7 in their first innings, putting India under immense pressure. Gambhir, however, was undeterred and played a gritty knock to lead the reply. His 150 came under challenging conditions against a bowling attack led by the legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan. Gambhir’s efforts helped India salvage a draw, and his resilience against the turning ball was commendable. This innings further solidified his reputation as a dependable top-order batsman - capable of thriving in tough conditions.

4. 167 vs New Zealand - Wellington, 2009 (Test Match)

Gautam Gambhir’s knock of 167 in Wellington, New Zealand, during the 2009 Test series was another monumental effort that helped India achieve a historic series victory. India was in a precarious position, having conceded a 182-run first-innings lead. In the second innings, Gambhir played an incredibly patient and determined game. His ability to bat well for long periods was key to India securing a draw, ensuring India won their first Test series in New Zealand in over four decades. Gambhir’s knock was crucial, and his temperament and discipline underlined his value in the team.

5. 64 vs Pakistan - 2007 ICC T20 World Cup Final

Though not a century or a particularly massive score, Gambhir’s innings of 64 in the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup Final against Pakistan was one of his most significant performances in the shorter format. In the inaugural T20 World Cup final, India needed a solid start on a tricky pitch. Gambhir's 64 off 54 balls provided the backbone of India’s innings and was the highest score of the match. While other Indian batsmen struggled, Gambhir's sensible batting helped India post a competitive total. His knock, in a high-pressure environment, was instrumental in India clinching the title, which marked the beginning of India's domination in T20 cricket.

6. 102 vs New Zealand - Napier, 2009 (Test Match)

Gambhir’s unbeaten century in the second innings of the 2009 Napier Test against New Zealand was another example of his ability to grind it out in tough conditions. Chasing a mammoth 619 set by New Zealand, India were asked to follow on. Gambhir’s second-innings knock of 102 not out came in almost 11 hours of painstaking resistance. His knock, alongside Rahul Dravid’s contribution, saved the match for India and helped them avoid a potential series loss. This innings once again highlighted his ability to dig deep and rescue India in challenging situations.

7. 114 vs Bangladesh - Chittagong, 2010 (Test Match)

In the 2010 Test series against Bangladesh, Gambhir scored a composed 114 in the first Test at Chittagong. His century was particularly significant because it marked his fifth consecutive Test century, a rare and elite achievement. His run of form during this period was incredible, and this century showcased his ability to dominate different bowling attacks, both at home and away.