Gambhir addressed his massive workload as an all-format coach for the Indian team.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has openly admitted to feeling mentally drained due to the grueling nature of managing the national team across all three formats, but asserted that he is fully prepared to absorb the relentless pressure.
Speaking at a post-match press conference following India's 3-2 T20I series victory against New Zealand in Hamilton on Sunday (November 1), Gambhir addressed his massive workload.
He acknowledged the psychological toll of a packed cricket calendar, noting that unlike players who get managed rests, an all-format coach rarely gets a break.
Furthermore, Gambhir reinforced his defiant philosophy, stating that terms like "fear" and "fatigue" simply do not exist in his dictionary.
“In my dictionary, my directory, and my ideology, there is no place for fear, and that word does not exist in my life. I think we are professionals, and I’ve always believed that there are no excuses,” Gambhir told reporters.
“From the workload point of view, I know it's tough. It can be very challenging as well. Especially when you are on the road and the kind of pressure you go through. Especially coaching a team like India, and people don't give you an inch. Everyone expects you to win every game, but you need to be realistic as well. I am enjoying it," he added.
While admitting he feels drained at times, Gambhir emphasized his willingness to absorb heavy public and media pressure, citing that he is "ready to take the bullet."
"Yes, I have, to be honest, but I am strong enough to manage that. I’m strong enough to take it for as long as I can. That's how I am built, and I can take pressure; I can take the bullet. But yes, I am a human being; there will be times when I will feel drained out, but till now I have been able to take it," Gambhir remarked.
The demanding assignment continues immediately for Gautam Gambhir and his squad, as India shift focus directly to a five-match ODI series and two Test matches against New Zealand.