Gautam Gambhir could return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after the 2027 ODI World Cup, with four franchises reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing the current India head coach into their coaching or mentorship setup. However, his existing contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could determine whether a reunion with franchise cricket becomes possible.
Four IPL franchises interested in Gautam Gambhir
Gambhir’s potential return to the IPL has attracted attention because of his successful record in franchise cricket. He previously worked with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), helping both teams achieve significant results during his time as mentor.
Representatives from Gambhir’s camp have held preliminary discussions with Rajasthan Royals (RR). KKR are also among the teams interested in securing his services, while two other franchises have reportedly expressed interest in appointing him for the 2028 season.
Franchises could consider him for either a head coach or mentor position, depending on their existing support staff and long-term plans. His experience in team building, tactical planning and handling high-pressure matches could be valuable for teams looking to improve their performances.
BCCI contract set to delay Gambhir’s IPL return
The biggest factor influencing Gambhir’s future is his commitment to the Indian national team. He was appointed India’s senior men’s head coach in July 2024, succeeding Rahul Dravid. His current tenure will run until the conclusion of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
If the BCCI extends his contract beyond the tournament, a return to the IPL could be delayed further. There’s also possibility of Gambhir remaining involved with the national team till the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, although no extension has been officially confirmed.
For the franchises interested in his services, the uncertainty means they may have to wait before making concrete plans.
Gambhir’s immediate priority remains India’s international assignments. Any future decision about returning to franchise cricket will depend on his national-team commitments and the BCCI’s plans after the 2027 World Cup.
How Gautam Gambhir helped KKR win IPL 2024?
Gambhir’s coaching credentials received a major boost during the 2024 IPL season, when he returned to KKR as a mentor.
The former India opener had already enjoyed considerable success with the franchise as a player and captain, leading KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. His return in 2024 proved equally successful, as the team won its third championship under captain Shreyas Iyer.
KKR finished the league stage strongly before defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final. Gambhir’s strategic involvement and understanding of the franchise’s culture were widely discussed during the title-winning campaign.
He left the franchise after the season to take charge of the Indian national team. KKR subsequently struggled to reproduce that success, missing the playoffs in the next two seasons.
His previous association with the franchise makes a potential reunion an interesting possibility, although there is no confirmed agreement for 2028.
Also READ: Reason why Mumbai Indians parted ways with bowling coach Lasith Malinga ahead of IPL 2027
Gambhir’s successful stint with Lucknow Super Giants
Before returning to KKR, Gambhir served as LSG’s mentor in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. The franchise qualified for the playoffs in both campaigns, establishing itself as a competitive side soon after entering the tournament.
His work with LSG further strengthened his reputation as a strategist capable of helping teams build competitive combinations. The experience also demonstrated his ability to work with a relatively new franchise and guide it through the challenges of the IPL.
That background explains why teams beyond his former employers could be interested in his services.
Also READ: 2007 T20 World Cup winner joins Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2027
