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 praised Gambhir, with Yuvraj promising his continued support and Raina highlighting his fighting spirit and contribution to Indian cricket.Yuvraj took to Instagram to wish Gambhir, expressing his support and hoping that the former India opener continues to achieve greater success.“GG, you know I’ve always got your back and wish you only go from strength to strength! Happy birthday, brother. Always upwards, and keep making 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 commitment to Indian cricket.“A fighter on the field, a champion at heart, and a man who has always stood tall for Indian cricket,” Raina wrote.“Wishing you good health, happiness, and many more milestones in your journey. Keep inspiring, keep leading,” he added.
Rohan Jaitley, Rajeev Shukla wish Gambhir
Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitley also wished Gambhir on his 45th birthday, saying Delhi was proud of his contribution to Indian cricket.“Happy Birthday, Gautam Gambhir! Wishing you good health, happiness and continued 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, praising his passion and commitment to the sport.“Your passion for cricket, competitive spirit and unwavering commitment to Indian cricket continue to inspire. 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 opener to head coach
Gambhir was one of India’s leading opening batters between 2003 and 2016 and formed a formidable partnership with Virender Sehwag. He played a crucial role in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, scoring 393 runs in nine innings, including four half-centuries. His 97-run knock in the final against Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium helped India chase down a target of 275 and win the trophy after 28 years.Across international cricket, Gambhir scored 10,324 runs in 242 matches at an average of 38.95, including 20 centuries and 63 half-centuries.He also enjoyed success in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to titles in 2012 and 2014. As a batter, he scored 4,217 runs in 154 IPL matches, including 36 half-centuries.Gambhir took charge as India’s head coach in July 2024. Under his leadership, India won the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the 2025 ACC Men’s Asia Cup and the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.