Indian Test legend Cheteshwar Pujara did not hesitate to call out Ravichandran Ashwin as the ideal candidate to succeed Gautam Gambhir as India’s next head coach.
Why Pujara Picked Ashwin
When asked which retired Indian cricketer could step into the high-pressure role of head coach, Pujara didn’t even pause. His answer? “Ravichandran Ashwin.”
For Pujara, the choice was obvious. Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in late 2024, has always been known as one of the sharpest cricketing minds India has produced.
“Whether it’s planning for batters, analyzing conditions, or inventing new deliveries, Ashwin was always two steps ahead,” Pujara explained in the interaction.
Ashwin: The Mastermind of Indian Cricket
Ashwin’s numbers alone make him one of India’s greatest.
- 765 international wickets – second only to Anil Kumble.
- 537 Test wickets – making him India’s most successful spinner after Kumble.
But what makes Ashwin special isn’t just the wickets. It’s the way he thinks about the game. More than just a wicket-taker, Ashwin has earned a reputation as a cerebral cricketer.
More than just a wicket-taker, Ashwin has earned a reputation as a cerebral cricketer.
- Forman Indian Captian Virat Kohli once dubbed him a “scientist” after Ashwin anticipated and sidestepped a tricky Mohammad Nawaz delivery
Even Ashwin himself admitted in an interview that being labeled an “overthinker” never bothered him.
“I’ve always wanted to stay one step ahead. If that makes me an overthinker, so be it,” he said.”
Former coach Rahul Dravid praised Ashwin’s competitive spirit and thought-provoking presence, noting:
“He challenges you as a coach … He has moved the craft of spin bowling through his hard work, dedication and innovation.”
Since hanging up his boots, Ashwin hasn’t exactly walked away from cricket. He continues to play in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings and runs a hugely popular YouTube channel where he breaks down cricketing tactics with ease.
While his last IPL season wasn’t spectacular — 7 wickets in 9 games — his off-field insights have impressed fans and players alike. In many ways, he has already been playing the role of a mentor and strategist.
For now, India is in safe hands with Gautam Gambhir. Under his guidance, the Men in Blue lifted the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, proving his aggressive, fearless brand of cricket is working.
But Gambhir’s contract runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup, and conversations have already begun about who might take over after that. Pujara’s strong endorsement of Ashwin could set the tone for the future.
Why Ashwin Could Be the Ideal Coach
- Cricketing Brain – Few players analyze the game as deeply as Ashwin.
- Experience Across Formats – He has played and succeeded in all three formats, understanding modern challenges.
- Communication Skills – His YouTube content proves he can explain complex strategies in simple terms.
- Respect from Peers – Players like Kohli and Dravid have acknowledged his genius.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s backing of Ravichandran Ashwin as India’s next head coach is more than just a friendly compliment. It’s a sign that India’s cricketing brains trust Ashwin to carry forward the legacy.
Gautam Gambhir may be the man in charge right now, but when the time comes for a new leader, Ashwin could well be the “scientist coach” India never knew it needed.
