Rating the Indian Coaches who donned the hats since 2000

Modified Jun 23, 2017 10:35 IST

Anil Kumble’s resignation opens the way to a new coach of the Indian team

Gary Kirsten (2007-2011) – 9/10

Kirsten is the name that pops up first when someone mentions the most successful coach of the Indian Cricket team. The former South African cricketer stepped into the shoes of the mentor in March 2008, leading the Indian team to the most awaited days of glory. Gary Kirsten's method of functioning fetched his admirable uniqueness. He was instrumental in Team India's rise but was always out of public sight. A man who abided by “actions speaks louder than words” allowed his team's performance to speak for his efforts.

Although team India performed consistently well since the beginning of Kirsten's regime, their biggest achievement was the farewell present they gave to him. Team India went on to become the world champions by winning the World Cup in 2011 and lifted the trophy after 28 long years. Undoubtedly, Kirsten was the paragon for the masses.

During his tenure, Team India also won the Border-Gavaskar trophy as well as its first bilateral series in Sri Lanka. Their Test and ODI series victories in New Zealand also finally put an end to a 40-year drought as India soared to the top of the chart in the ICC Test Rankings in December 2009.

Gary Kirsten and the former Indian skipper, Mahendra Singh Dhoni was also the most successful leadership duo the Indian Cricket witnessed. They perfectly blended with each other's approach thereby, leading the team to the much awaited World Cup win. The South African invested a lot of confidence in the Indian team and worked on their strengths and weaknesses from every prospect.

He bid adieu to the Indian cricket at a very successful and content note. His contributions to the Indian Cricket can never be measured. Despite being behind the scene, he ensured that the world applauds his show.