India National Cricket Team Coaches List | 1971–2025

Indian Cricket Team Coaches List (1971–2025): Leadership Through the Years
Cricket, the passion of more than millions of fans throughout India, binds the country together. While players usually grab the attention of the media, the coaches work behind the scenes, quietly steering the direction of the team. There have been numerous head coaches of the Indian national team, each marking his own would.

24. Gautam Gambhir (2024–Present)

Gambhir joined the Indian team in 2024 as their chief coach, bringing intensity and a sharper tactical mind. India, under his leadership, went on to win the Champions Trophy in 2025, remaining unbeaten. His straightforward attitude and the emphasis on the team have given a new lease of life to the side. Morne Morkel is the bowling coach, and Adrian Le Roux has taken strength and conditioning duties.

23. Rahul Dravid (2021–2024)

Dravid, known for his calmness and developmental approach, focused on nurturing talent while seeing India grab the 2024 T20 World Cup. He was busy building bench strength and working with the team towards long-term goals.

22. Ravi Shastri (2017–2021)

During his tenure, India was the first Test team to win a series in Australia and made it to the World Cup semifinals held in 2019. His whole stint with the Indian team was marked by a motivational approach, with an emphasis on positive, attacking cricket.

21. Anil Kumble (2016–2017)

Kumble was my bowling legend with an emphasis on discipline and planning. His term was short, but it brought India success in the Test series at home.

20. Duncan Fletcher (2011–2015)

The Zimbabwean coach led India after the 2011 World Cup win. Despite overseas Test struggles, he guided the team to the 2013 Champions Trophy and improved player fitness.

19. Gary Kirsten (2008–2011)

Under Kirsten, India achieved the 2011 ODI World Cup victory and rose to No. 1 in the Test rankings. He maintained strong individual relationships, especially with captains like Dhoni.

18. Lalchand Rajput (2007–2008)
Rajput coached India during their 2007 T20 World Cup win, supporting young talent in adapting to the T20 format.

17. Greg Chappell (2005–2007)
Chappell brought fresh tactics and focused on youth, but controversies affected team harmony. His tenure ended after India’s early exit in the 2007 World Cup.

16. John Wright (2000–2005)
India’s first foreign coach, Wright laid the foundation for a competitive side. The team reached the 2003 World Cup final and recorded key overseas wins.

15. Kapil Dev (1999–2000)
As a former World Cup-winning captain, Kapil sought to instil aggression. His term was cut short amid match-fixing allegations, later proven false.

14. Anshuman Gaekwad (1997–1999)
Gaekwad prioritized consistency and team spirit, supporting young players during a transitional phase.

13. Madan Lal (1996–1997)
Madan Lal focused on improving all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding—bringing enthusiasm to the side.

12. Sandeep Patil (1996)
Though brief, Patil’s term introduced modern training systems and fresh ideas to the team structure.

11. Ajit Wadekar (1992–1996)
Wadekar guided India to strong home performances and was known for fostering team confidence during his stable tenure.

10. Abbas Ali Baig (1991–1992)
Baig focused on long-term development and technical skills, aiming to shape players for future success.

9. Bishan Singh Bedi (1990–1991)
Bedi emphasized spin bowling and honesty in his coaching methods, making a lasting impact in a short stint.

8. Chandu Borde (1988)
Borde worked on building unity and teamwork among players during a crucial transition period.

7. PR Man Singh (1983–1987)
Serving as team manager, Man Singh played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in India’s 1983 World Cup win, contributing to coordination and planning.

6. Ashok Mankad (1982)
Mankad’s brief stint focused on strategic development and preparing emerging players for bigger challenges.

5. Salim Durrani (1980–1981)
A former player known for his flair, Durrani emphasized aggressive batting and played a key role in shaping the team’s offensive strategy.

4. Datta Gaekwad (1978)
Gaekwad coached during a rebuilding phase, offering calm leadership during turbulent times and focusing on structure.

3. Gulabrai Ramchand (1975)
Ramchand coached India during their first-ever Cricket World Cup in 1975, helping the team adapt to the new ODI format.

2. Hemu Adhikari (1971–1974)
Adhikari guided India during a historic period, emphasizing fitness, discipline, and nurturing young stars like Sunil Gavaskar.

1. Keki Tarapore (1971)
Tarapore’s coaching during the 1971 England tour was instrumental in India’s landmark overseas success. His preparation methods laid the groundwork for future triumphs.