Former India Teammate Names R Ashwin As Future Coach After Gambhir Steps Down
Cheteshwar Pujara, a key figure in India's Test batting lineup, recently discussed the future of Indian cricket and endorsed Ravichandran Ashwin as the ideal candidate for India's coaching role in the years to come. Ashwin, celebrated for his cricketing acumen and strategic prowess both as a batsman and bowler, has recently retired from international cricket. His last appearance was during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia, playing in the second Test before officially retiring after the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Ashwin concluded his career as India's second-most successful bowler across formats, with a remarkable tally of 765 wickets. In Test cricket, he retired with 537 wickets, making him India's second-highest wicket-taker in the format, only behind Anil Kumble, who tops the list with 619 wickets. His final Test match was in Adelaide, where he further solidified his legacy with his last international wicket.
During a candid Q&A session with ESPNcricinfo, Pujara was asked who he believed could become India's coach in the future. He promptly named Ravichandran Ashwin. This choice can be for Ashwin's deep understanding of cricket and his ability to grasp the intricate details of the game, positioning him as a strong candidate for the coaching role.
Ashwin's final competitive appearance was in the Indian Premier League 2025, representing Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Unfortunately, it was a forgettable season for both Ashwin and CSK. Ashwin took only seven wickets in nine matches, conceding 283 runs, while CSK had one of their worst seasons, finishing last with just four wins from 14 games, exacerbated by the injury of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Additionally, Pujara identified Virat Kohli as the batsman likely to break nearly every record in world cricket. Kohli, who recently retired from Test cricket following a disappointing series in Australia during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (scoring only 190 runs in five Tests), ended his international career on a high. His last appearance was in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where India triumphed over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium to claim the prestigious trophy.
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