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New Delhi: Several Indian cricket coaches including Greg Chappell and Anil Kumble faced challenges asserting authority over players. However Gautam Gambhir appears poised to achieve a level of influence exceeding that of the team captain a rarity in Indian cricket history. Past instances demonstrate the limitations of powerful coaches who underestimated player influence; successful coaches like John Wright Gary Kirsten and Ravi Shastri conversely understood the need for a more collaborative approach. The Indian Test teams recent loss of veteran players Kohli Sharma and Ashwin creates an opportunity for Gambhir to implement his strategic vision. According to BCCI sources Gautam Gambhir aimed to eliminate the emphasis on star players within the team. The Gautam Gambhir era begins now. He was categorical that during the next WTC cycle India need to have fresh faces a BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity. Everyone associated with decision making knew where Gambhir stood in terms of carrying seniors in the longest format. Obviously his and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkars thoughts aligned he added. Indian cricket captains historically hold significant authority often superseding even the most influential coaches. Ganguly Dhoni Kohli and Sharma each held ultimate authority within their respective national teams. Gambhir now holds ultimate authority and decision-making power. The captaincy pairing of Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma while short-lived was notable. This contrasts with the partnership between Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir which was reportedly less harmonious. Gambhir and Kohli reconciled with influential figures facilitating the agreement. A coach has successfully implemented a rapid replacement of prominent players a previously unprecedented occurrence. During Indias cricket team transition Gautam Gambhir reportedly urged the BCCI to grant him greater authority to prevent future series losses like those against Australia and New Zealand. Shubman Gills youth and relative inexperience mean hes likely to be receptive to captain Gautam Gambhirs guidance at least initially. While Gill shows immense potential he hasnt yet established the seniority to challenge Gambhirs leadership choices. Jasprit Bumrahs potential to offer independent leadership has been undermined by recurring fitness issues. Going forward Gautam Gambhir will have significant authority mirroring his role in the T20 team. However his influence in ODIs will be more limited as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are expected to remain key players until the 2027 World Cup.