Gautam Gambhir Biography
Gautam Gambhir (born 14 October 1981) is the current Head Coach of the Indian men’s cricket team (appointed July 2024) and a former international cricketer, politician, and philanthropist.
He played for India from 2003 to 2016, excelling as a left-handed opening batsman and captaining Kolkata Knight Riders to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, later mentoring them to a 2024 IPL victory.
Gambhir was part of India’s winning squads in the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 Cricket World Cup, scoring crucial runs in both finals.
He received the Padma Shri in 2019 and the Arjuna Award in 2008, was ICC Test Player of the Year in 2009, and briefly ranked No.1 in ICC Test rankings the same year.
He retired from all cricket in December 2018, entered politics with the Bharatiya Janata Party, and served as a Lok Sabha MP for East Delhi from 2019 to 2024.
He also mentored IPL teams Lucknow Super Giants (2022–23) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2024), and led India to victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy as head coach.
Gautam Gambhir Wikipedia
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gautam Gambhir |
| Nickname | Gauti |
| Date of Birth | 14 October 1981 |
| Age (2024) | 43 years |
| Birthplace | New Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Caste | Punjabi Khatri |
| Food Habit | Non-vegetarian |
| Education | Modern School, New Delhi; Hindu College (dropout) |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
| Eye Colour | Dark Brown |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Batting Style | Left-hand bat |
| Bowling Style | Legbreak |
| Domestic Team | Delhi cricket team |
| IPL Teams | Delhi Capitals (2008–2010, 2018), Kolkata Knight Riders (2011–2017) |
| International Debut | ODI: 11 April 2003 vs Bangladesh, Test: 3 Nov 2004 vs Australia, T20: 13 Sept 2007 vs Scotland |
| International Retirement | March 2019 |
| Jersey Numbers | #5 (India), #23 (KKR, DD) |
| Records & Achievements | – 5 centuries in 5 consecutive Test matches – 300+ runs in 4 consecutive Test series – ICC Test Player of the Year (2009) – Arjuna Award (2009) – Padma Shri (2019) |
| Politics | Joined BJP (22 March 2019) Won 2019 Lok Sabha election (East Delhi) Quit BJP & politics (2 March 2024) |
| Wife | Natasha Jain (married 28 October 2011) |
| Children | Two daughters – Aazeen (2014), Anaiza (2017) |
| Parents | Deepak Gambhir (father), Seema Gambhir (mother) |
| Sibling | Sister Ekta Gambhir |
| Hobbies | Badminton, meditation, yoga, music |
| Residence | Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi |
| Miscellaneous | Founder of Gautam Gambhir Foundation, IPL captain & highest-paid IPL player in 2011. Known for opening partnership with Sehwag. IPL mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (since 2021). Estimated net worth: Rs. 265 crore (2024) |
Gautam Gambhir Early Life and Background
Gautam Gambhir was born on 14 October 1981 in New Delhi, India, into a Punjabi Hindu Khatri family.
His father, Deepak Gambhir, is a textile businessman, while his mother, Seema Gambhir, is a homemaker. Gautam also has a younger sister named Ekta Gambhir.
In a unique twist of fate, Gautam was adopted by his maternal grandparents just 18 days after birth and was raised by them throughout his childhood. This close-knit family upbringing played a significant role in shaping his personality and values.
Gautam showed an early interest in cricket and began playing the sport at the age of 10.
He attended the prestigious Modern School in Delhi, where he first started to hone his cricketing skills seriously.
Despite not pursuing a formal college education, Gambhir’s passion for cricket led him to professional training.
In 2000, he became part of the inaugural batch at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore, a pivotal institution for grooming India’s cricketing talent.
Under the guidance of renowned coaches like Sanjay Bharadwaj and Raju Tandon, Gambhir developed his solid batting technique and temperament, traits that would define his international cricket career.
Gautam Gambhir Career
Indian Premier League (IPL) Career:
Gautam Gambhir has been one of the most influential players in the Indian Premier League since its inception in 2008.
Known for his aggressive opening batting and astute captaincy, Gambhir made a significant impact both as a player and as a leader.
Early IPL Years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):
Gambhir was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the inaugural IPL season in 2008.
From the beginning, he established himself as a crucial opener, known for his ability to play long innings and anchor the innings while maintaining a good strike rate.
His aggressive yet composed approach helped KKR gain stability at the top order.
Captaincy and Success:
In 2011, Gambhir was appointed the captain of KKR, and this marked a turning point for the franchise.
Under his leadership, the team became more consistent and competitive.
Gambhir’s tactical acumen and calm presence on the field earned praise from teammates and critics alike.
The peak of his IPL career came when he led KKR to their first IPL title in 2012.
In the final against Chennai Super Kings, Gambhir scored a composed 75 runs, steering the team to victory.
His leadership and batting heroics throughout the season were pivotal in the franchise’s triumph.
KKR, under Gambhir’s captaincy, continued their strong run by winning the IPL title again in 2014, making them one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.
Gambhir’s role as a leader was widely credited for building a cohesive unit with a good mix of experienced players and young talent.
Batting Style and Records in IPL:
As an IPL batsman, Gambhir was known for his fearless strokeplay, excellent technique, and ability to perform under pressure.
He was particularly strong on the offside and displayed a great sense of timing and placement.
By the time he retired from the IPL in 2018, Gambhir had scored over 4,000 runs in the league, making him one of the top run-scorers in IPL history.
He scored several crucial half-centuries and centuries, consistently providing solid starts for his team.
Later Years and Legacy:
In 2018, Gambhir played his last IPL season before retiring from the league. His leadership left a lasting legacy at KKR, and he is often regarded as one of the finest captains and batsmen in IPL history.
Gambhir’s success with KKR helped elevate the franchise from a struggling team to a championship-winning powerhouse. His mentorship also helped nurture young talents who went on to become successful IPL players.
Gautam Gambhir International Career
Gautam Gambhir’s international career spanned over a decade, during which he established himself as one of India’s most dependable opening batsmen in both Test and One Day International (ODI) formats.
Known for his gritty determination and ability to perform in pressure situations, Gambhir played a crucial role in many of India’s historic victories.
Debut and Early Years:
ODI Debut: Gambhir made his ODI debut for India on June 18, 2003, against England.
Test Debut: His Test debut came two years later, on November 4, 2004, against Australia in Mohali.
Initially, Gambhir’s international appearances were sporadic, but he soon cemented his place as a regular opener in both formats.
Rise as a Key Opener:
Gambhir’s style combined solid technique with aggression, making him ideal for the opening slot.
He was particularly adept at handling fast bowling and challenging pitch conditions, which earned him respect internationally.
Notable Achievements and Performances:
Test Cricket: Gambhir played 58 Test matches, scoring over 4,400 runs at an average of around 44.7.
He recorded 14 centuries and 15 fifties.
His ability to bat long innings helped India in many challenging overseas conditions.
ODI Cricket: In ODIs, Gambhir featured in 147 matches, scoring nearly 5,300 runs with an average close to 39.7.
He made 12 centuries and 35 fifties, becoming a mainstay in the Indian limited-overs team.
Key Highlights:
2007 ICC World Twenty20: Gambhir was part of the Indian team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa.
Though not always consistent, he contributed important knocks when required.
2011 ICC Cricket World Cup: One of the crowning moments of Gambhir’s career came during the 2011 World Cup held in India.
He was instrumental in India’s success, especially in the knockout stages:
Semi-final vs Pakistan: Gambhir played a crucial innings of 97 runs, stabilizing the chase in a high-pressure game.
Final vs Sri Lanka: He scored a vital 97 runs again, anchoring the innings alongside MS Dhoni and helping India lift the World Cup trophy after 28 years.
This World Cup win cemented Gambhir’s legacy as a big-match player.
Test Match Heroics:
Away Series Success: Gambhir was particularly successful in tough overseas tours.
For example, in the 2008 Test series in Australia, he scored a match-winning century in the Sydney Test.
Partnerships: He was known for his valuable opening partnerships with Virender Sehwag, often giving India explosive starts.
Later Years and Retirement:
Gambhir’s form started to decline around 2014-2015, and with the emergence of new opening batsmen, his place in the team became less secure.
He played his last Test match in 2016 and officially retired from international cricket in December 2018.
Legacy:
Gautam Gambhir is remembered as a fearless batsman who thrived under pressure.
His temperament and hunger for runs in crucial games made him one of India’s most reliable openers.
Beyond statistics, his contributions in World Cups and tough away series have earned him a revered spot in Indian cricket history.
Gautam Gambhir Foundation
Gautam Gambhir, beyond his achievements on the cricket field, has been deeply committed to philanthropy and social causes.
To formalize and amplify his charitable efforts, he established the Gautam Gambhir Foundation (GGF), a nonprofit organization focused on improving the lives of underprivileged sections of society.
Purpose and Vision:
The foundation is dedicated to supporting health, education, and welfare initiatives for the needy, with a strong emphasis on:
Providing quality education to children from economically weaker backgrounds.
Supporting health and medical treatment for underprivileged patients.
Promoting sports and fitness among youth to inspire positive life changes.
Empowering women and marginalized communities through skill development.
Gambhir has often spoken about his belief in giving back to society, and the foundation is a reflection of this commitment.
Gautam Gambhir Major Activities and Projects
1. Education Support: The foundation runs programs to provide scholarships, school supplies, and learning materials to children who cannot afford education.
It partners with schools and NGOs to improve the educational infrastructure and opportunities in rural and urban slums.
2. Healthcare Initiatives: Gautam Gambhir Foundation actively supports free medical camps, health check-ups, and organ donation awareness.
It has helped fund surgeries and treatments for children and adults suffering from critical illnesses who lack financial resources.
3. COVID-19 Relief Efforts: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation played an active role by distributing masks, sanitizers, and food kits to vulnerable populations.
It also contributed funds and resources to hospitals and frontline workers.
4. Support for Sports Development: Understanding the role of sports in character-building and social upliftment, GGF promotes sports training and facilities for talented young athletes from poor backgrounds.
Gambhir’s own journey inspires the foundation’s mission to nurture young sporting talent.
5. Women Empowerment: The foundation runs initiatives that provide vocational training and financial assistance to women, helping them achieve economic independence.
Gautam Gambhir Impact and Recognition
Since its inception, the Gautam Gambhir Foundation has positively impacted thousands of lives across India.
Gambhir’s high profile and dedication have helped raise awareness and funds for various causes.
His foundation is frequently involved in grassroots-level work, making a tangible difference in communities.
Personal Involvement:
Gautam Gambhir is personally hands-on with the foundation’s activities.
He regularly participates in events, visits project sites, and uses his influence to mobilize resources.
Gambhir’s passion for social service is reflected in the foundation’s consistent efforts toward inclusive growth.
Gautam Gambhir Political Career
After retiring from international cricket, Gautam Gambhir transitioned into politics, driven by a desire to contribute to national development beyond sports.
His political journey reflects his commitment to public service, leadership, and making a positive impact on society.
Entry into Politics:
Joining BJP: Gautam Gambhir officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in February 2019.
His entry into politics was widely covered in the media, as it marked the move of a prominent sports figure into the political arena.
Gambhir stated that his motivation to join politics stemmed from his wish to serve the nation and address issues like youth empowerment, education, and infrastructure development.
Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha):
2019 General Elections: Gambhir contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi parliamentary constituency as a BJP candidate.
He won the election with a significant margin, defeating the incumbent Gautam Gambhir, highlighting his popularity and trust among voters.
This victory marked his official entry into the 17th Lok Sabha (the lower house of India’s Parliament).
Parliamentary Contributions:
Since becoming an MP, Gautam Gambhir has actively participated in parliamentary debates and discussions, often focusing on topics related to youth, sports, education, and urban development.
He has been vocal about issues affecting Delhi, including infrastructure improvements, healthcare access, and pollution control.
Gambhir leverages his sports background to advocate for better facilities and funding for athletes and sports infrastructure.
Social Initiatives and Public Service:
Apart from his role in Parliament, Gambhir continues to be involved in various social initiatives, combining his political influence with his philanthropic work through the Gautam Gambhir Foundation.
He is known for taking a hands-on approach in his constituency, regularly interacting with citizens and addressing local issues.
Public Perception and Media:
Gautam Gambhir’s transition from a celebrated cricketer to a politician has been positively received by many, who see him as a dedicated and disciplined leader.
His direct and often outspoken communication style in politics reflects the confidence and leadership skills honed during his cricketing career.
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Gautam Gambhir Other Works
1. Philanthropy and Social Causes
Gautam Gambhir Foundation: Apart from his political work, Gambhir is deeply involved in philanthropy through his foundation.
The foundation focuses on healthcare, education, and supporting underprivileged children and families.
COVID-19 Relief: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gambhir actively contributed to relief efforts by providing oxygen cylinders, medical supplies, and financial aid to hospitals and needy families in Delhi and other parts of India.
Health Initiatives: He has been involved in initiatives to provide free medical treatment and surgeries for children suffering from heart diseases and other critical ailments.
2. Cricket Commentary and Analysis
After retiring from international cricket, Gautam Gambhir has occasionally worked as a cricket commentator and analyst for television broadcasts, especially during major tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international series.
His insights and tactical knowledge as a former opening batsman add value to cricket broadcasts.
3. Mentoring and Coaching
Gambhir has also taken up mentoring roles for younger cricketers. His experience and leadership skills have made him a sought-after mentor in the cricketing community.
He has been involved in coaching camps and cricket academies, helping nurture future talents.
4. Media Appearances
Gambhir has appeared on various sports talk shows, interviews, and panel discussions where he shares his views on cricket, sportsmanship, and current affairs.
He has occasionally engaged with digital platforms and podcasts, expanding his reach to younger audiences.
5. Business Ventures
Though less publicized, Gambhir has been linked to various business ventures related to sports, fitness, and lifestyle.
His brand endorsements also contribute to his portfolio beyond active cricket and politics.
6. Advocacy and Public Speaking
Gambhir is known for his motivational speeches and public talks, often focusing on discipline, leadership, mental toughness, and patriotism.
He has been invited to speak at corporate events, educational institutions, and sports conferences.
Gautam Gambhir’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Gautam Gambhir’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹265 crore (around $32 million).
Gautam Gambhir Personal Life
Gautam married lawyer Natasha Jain in December 2011, and together they have two children, whom they keep largely out of the public eye.
Family values like discipline, education, and humility have strongly influenced Gambhir throughout his cricket career and into his post-retirement life, where he focuses on public service and politics inspired by his desire to create a better future for his family and society.
Gautam Gambhir Controversies
1. 2007 Verbal Fight with Shahid Afridi: During the 3rd ODI against Pakistan at Kanpur in 2007, Gautam Gambhir and Shahid Afridi got into a heated verbal argument following a collision on the field. T
he incident escalated tensions between the two teams during the match.
2. 2010 Argument with Kamran Akmal: In the Asia Cup 2010, Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal made a loud appeal against Gambhir, which angered him and led to a heated exchange between the two players.
The umpires and other players intervened to prevent the situation from worsening.
3. 2013 IPL Spat with Virat Kohli: During IPL 6, a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders saw Gambhir and Virat Kohli involved in an ugly spat.
After getting out, Kohli made some provocative remarks, angering Gambhir, and both exchanged abusive words until teammates intervened.
4. 2019 Lok Sabha Elections Pamphlet Controversy: While contesting from East Delhi, Gautam Gambhir was accused by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of distributing obscene and derogatory pamphlets against Atishi Marlena, AAP’s candidate.
Gambhir challenged Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to prove the allegations or quit politics, boldly stating he would “hang himself in public” if found guilty.
5. 2023 On-field Clash with Virat Kohli in IPL: On 1 May 2023, during an IPL match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gambhir was involved in a clash with Kohli after an altercation during the break of the 16th and 17th over.
Both Gambhir and Kohli were fined 100% of their match fees for their conduct, while LSG player Naveen-ul-Haq was fined 50%.
6. 2023 Asia Cup Rude Gesture Incident: A video went viral during the 2023 Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan, showing Gambhir making a rude gesture to the crowd.
The crowd was chanting “Kohli, Kohli,” and Gambhir’s reaction sparked criticism.
Gambhir later clarified that the crowd was actually chanting anti-India slogans, and his reaction was against those comments. Further investigations revealed the viral video was misleading, with audio taken from an unrelated 2016 incident.
Gautam Gambhir Lesser-Known Facts
Adopted by maternal grandparents 18 days after birth; grew up in Karol Bagh, Delhi
Started cricket at age 10; attended National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru (2000)
Close school friend: cricketer Rajat Bhatia
Inspired by Bhagat Singh and Mother Teresa
Would have become a soldier if not a cricketer
Known for a strong opening partnership with Virender Sehwag
Does not smoke and is a teetotaller
Favored innings: 137 runs vs New Zealand in 2009 at Napier
Top scorer in 2007 ICC World Twenty20; included in ESPNcricinfo ‘Team of the Tournament’
Scored 534 runs in debut IPL season (2008)
Captain of the Delhi Daredevils IPL team (2010), scoring 1000 runs that season
Key player in India’s 2011 World Cup win, scoring 97 runs in the final
Highest-paid IPL player in 2011 auction (Rs. 14.9 crore)
Had a hair transplant in 2014
In IPL 2017, the record opening stand (184 runs) was made with Chris Lynn for KKR
Founded ‘The Gautam Gambhir Foundation’ in 2017 for philanthropy (supporting education & soldiers’ families)
Voluntarily left KKR in 2018 seeking new challenges; joined Delhi Daredevils
Stepped down as Delhi Daredevils captain mid-IPL 2018 due to poor form
Superstitious about keeping pads on until match end
Joined the BJP in 2019, impressed by PM Narendra Modi’s vision
Mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants IPL team since 2021
Named KKR mentor in November 2023
Gautam Gambhir Awards and Honours
ICC World Twenty20 Champion (2007): Gambhir was a key member of the Indian squad that won the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2007, held in South Africa.
ICC Cricket World Cup Winner (2011): Gautam Gambhir played a crucial role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory, especially with his match-winning innings in the final against Sri Lanka.
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2011): India’s highest sporting honour, awarded to Gambhir in recognition of his outstanding performance in international cricket.
Padma Shri Award (2019): The Government of India honoured Gambhir with the Padma Shri, the country’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his contributions to cricket.
Arjuna Award (2008): Gambhir received the Arjuna Award for his consistent performance and contribution to Indian cricket.
Man of the Match – 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup Final: Gambhir was awarded the Man of the Match for his crucial innings of 97 runs in the final, helping India secure the World Cup after 28 years.
Multiple IPL Titles with Kolkata Knight Riders: Gambhir captained Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL championships (2012 and 2014), cementing his legacy as a successful IPL captain.
Wisden Cricketer of the Year (2012): Gambhir was named one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in recognition of his performances in the 2011 World Cup and his overall impact in international cricket.
Interesting Facts About Gautam Gambhir
1. Early Talent: Gambhir was a prodigious talent in his youth and captained the Indian Under-19 cricket team to victory in the 2000 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
2. Schooling: He studied at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, balancing academics with his cricket career.
3. Batting Style: Known for his gritty and aggressive batting, Gambhir often opened the innings with a determined and fearless approach.
4. Match-winning Knock: His crucial 75 runs in the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in India’s triumph after 28 years.
5. Political Shift: After retiring from cricket, Gambhir transitioned to politics and won a Lok Sabha seat from East Delhi on a BJP ticket.
6. Philanthropy: Beyond cricket and politics, he is involved in social causes and founded the Gautam Gambhir Foundation, which supports underprivileged children.
7. Nickname: Gambhir’s surname means “serious” or “grave” in Hindi, which amusingly matches his intense on-field persona.
8. Fitness Freak: He is known for his dedication to fitness and mental toughness, often sharing workout routines on social media.
Gautam Gambhir Social Media
Twitter (X): @GautamGambhir
Instagram: @gautamgambhir55
Facebook: Gautam Gambhir
LinkedIn: Gautam Gambhir
FAQs
1. Who is Gautam Gambhir?
Gautam Gambhir is a former Indian international cricketer, politician, and philanthropist known for his aggressive batting style and crucial role in Indian cricket history.
Born on October 14, 1981, in New Delhi, India, he played as a left-handed opening batsman and was pivotal in India’s victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, scoring 97 runs in the final.
He had a successful career in both Test and ODI formats and captained IPL teams like Kolkata Knight Riders, leading them to two IPL titles.
2. What is Gautam Gambhir best known for in his cricket career?
He is best known for his aggressive opening batting, especially his match-winning 97 runs in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final, which helped India win the World Cup after 28 years.
3. How many centuries did Gautam Gambhir score in consecutive Test matches?
He was the first Indian and fourth overall to score centuries in 5 consecutive Test matches.
4. When did Gautam Gambhir retire from international cricket?
He retired from all formats of international cricket in March 2019.
5. What awards has Gautam Gambhir received for his contributions to cricket?
He received the ICC Test Player of the Year award in 2009, the Arjuna Award in 2009, and the Padma Shri in 2019.
6. What was Gautam Gambhir’s role in politics?
He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019, won the East Delhi Lok Sabha seat in the 2019 elections, and resigned from politics in March 2024.
7. What philanthropic work is Gautam Gambhir involved in?
He founded the Gautam Gambhir Foundation, which focuses on supporting education for underprivileged children and aid for families of soldiers.
8. Which IPL teams did Gautam Gambhir captain?
He captained Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) and Kolkata Knight Riders, leading KKR to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.
9. What is Gautam Gambhir’s height and playing style?
He is 5’6” (168 cm) tall and plays as a left-hand batsman with legbreak bowling style.
10. What controversies or memorable on-field moments is Gautam Gambhir known for?
He is known for his aggressive style and heated on-field moments with players like Shahid Afridi, Kamran Akmal, and Virat Kohli.
11. What is Gautam Gambhir’s current role in cricket?
As of 2024, he is the head coach of the Indian national cricket team and mentor for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL.
In conclusion
Gautam Gambhir is a celebrated former Indian cricketer whose aggressive batting and leadership significantly contributed to India’s cricketing success, including the iconic 2011 World Cup win.
Beyond the field, he transitioned into politics and philanthropy, using his platform to serve the public and support charitable causes.
His journey from a sportsman to a public figure and coach reflects his dedication, resilience, and passion both on and off the pitch.
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