Definitely not political, but keen to coach Team India: Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly has stated that he does not aim to pursue politics, but has expressed interest in coaching the Indian cricket team. The former India captain was the Team Director of the Delhi Capitals (DC) from 2018 to 2019 and again from 2022 to 2024.

Ganguly indicated that he withdrew from cricket in 2013 and later became the BCCI President, with a focus on developing women’s cricket. He agreed that we’ll have to see what happens with the possibility of taking on coaching responsibilities in the future.

“I never really considered it because I took on other roles. I retired from competitive cricket in 2013 and went on to become the president of the Board of Cricket Control International. We will see what the future holds. I’m only 50 [53], so let’s see what happens. I am open to it. Ganguly remarked, “We’ll see where this goes.”

Ganguly maintained his decision not to enter politics, stating that he would not be interested even if offered the job of state Chief Minister. The Indian great also lauded Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir, stating that he has improved significantly in his role after India’s Champions Trophy victory in Dubai in 2025.

“Gautam (Gambhir) is doing a good job. He started slowly, losing to Australia and New Zealand, but finished strong with the Champions Trophy. “This is going to be a big series [versus England],” Ganguly stated.

Gambhir is highly interested about learning: Sourav Ganguly

Ganguly praised Gambhir for his enthusiasm and open manner to voicing thoughts. He noted that Gambhir is very open with the players and others around him, emphasising that he provides openness to the role.

“I haven’t seen him up close in this role, but I know he is really enthusiastic. I haven’t extensively examined his tactics because I haven’t worked with him as a coach. He’s really direct, sees things clearly, and is quite upfront about how he feels about the team, players, people, and everything. “From the outside, you can tell he’s a very transparent person; what you see is what you get,” Ganguly said.

The 52-year-old stated that Gambhir respects everyone and is confident that he will continue to learn and improve in his coaching position.

“I have played with him. He was a nice man who had a lot of respect for me and the older players. Even now, I can tell he is really passionate about his career. I wish him the best. He’s only been in the position for a year, and this will be a crucial [England] tour. He suffered a little in Australia, but just like everyone else, he’ll learn, grow, and improve,” Ganguly said.