Gautam Gambhir celebrates 45th birthday: ‘Warrior on the field’ – a special birthday wish is coming
Gautam Gambhir (BCCI Photo) Former India cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina extended their birthday wishes to India head coach Gautam Gambhir as he turned 45 on Wednesday. Both former teammates heaped praise on Gambhir, with Yuvraj pledging his continued support and Raina highlighting his fighting spirit and contribution to Indian cricket.Yuvraj took to Instagram to wish Gambhir, express his support and hope that the former India opener will continue to achieve more.“GG you know I always have your back and wish you all the best! Happy birthday bro. Always up and keep us proud! Lots of love,” Yuvraj wrote.Raina also shared a birthday message for Gambhir on X, praising his attitude on the field and his dedication to Indian cricket.“A warrior on the field, a champion at heart and a man who has always stood behind Indian cricket,” Raina wrote.“I wish you good health, happiness and many more milestones on your journey. Be inspired, continue to lead,” he added.
Rohan Jaitley, Rajeev Shukla wish Gambhir
Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitley also wished Gambhir on his 45th birthday and said that Delhi is proud of his contribution to Indian cricket.“Happy birthday Gautam Gambhir! We wish you good health, happiness and more success. Delhi is proud of its own son and his invaluable contribution to Indian cricket. May you continue to inspire generations and take Indian cricket to greater heights,” Jaitley told IANS.BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla also congratulated the India head coach and appreciated his passion and dedication towards the sport.“Your passion for cricket, competitive spirit and unwavering commitment to Indian cricket continue to inspire you. May you be blessed with good health, happiness and continued success as you contribute to the growth and glory of Indian cricket. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead,” Shukla wrote.
Gambhir’s journey from India to head coach
Gambhir was one of India’s leading batsmen between 2003 and 2016 and formed a formidable partnership with Virender Sehwag. He played a key role in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, scoring 393 runs in nine innings, including four half-centuries. His 97 in the final against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai helped India chase down the target of 275 and win the trophy after 28 years.In international cricket, Gambhir has scored 10,324 runs in 242 matches at an average of 38.95, including 20 centuries and 63 half-centuries.He also found success in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to titles in 2012 and 2014. As a batsman, he scored 4,217 runs in 154 IPL matches, including 36 half-centuries.Gambhir took over as India’s head coach in July 2024. Under his leadership, India won the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 ACC Men’s Asia Cup and 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.