Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, is making headlines not just for his strategies on the field but also for his unique approach to team building. Gambhir has been hosting regular dinner gatherings at his residence in Delhi to foster camaraderie and strengthen the bond among team members.
On February 8, 2026, Gambhir hosted the Indian cricket team at his Delhi residence for a special dinner, ahead of their T20 World Cup 2026 match against Namibia. This is not the first time Gambhir has used this strategy. Back in October 2025, prior to the second Test against the West Indies, Gambhir organized a similar dinner. These gatherings serve as informal team-bonding events, providing a relaxed atmosphere away from the pressures of training and match schedules.
According to Shubman Gill, such get-togethers play a crucial role in team bonding. Gill mentioned that while players spend a lot of time together on the field, conversations are often limited. These dinners provide an opportunity for players to connect on a personal level, fostering understanding and trust. Gill noted that the team tries to organize such dinners two or three times during a series to maintain a light and engaging atmosphere.
The dinner on February 8 was particularly significant as it occurred during the T20 World Cup 2026, which is being held in India. With the World Cup moving to Delhi, Gambhir seized the opportunity to create a team-bonding session at his residence. Earlier, on February 5, Gambhir sought blessings at the Shree Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai with batting coach Sitanshu Hargovindbhai Kotak, before their T20 World Cup campaign. He also visited the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati before a series against New Zealand.
The guest list often extends beyond the players themselves. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president, Rajiv Shukla, has also been present at these dinners. The presence of officials like Shukla adds a formal touch to the otherwise casual event, highlighting the importance of these gatherings in the eyes of the cricket board.
These dinners feature a wide array of culinary delights. Reports suggest that the menu includes everything from starters to main courses, featuring Indian Tandoor, Chinese, and Continental Italian dishes. The goal is to create a pleasant and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Gambhir's emphasis on team bonding extends beyond dinners. Before the fourth T20I against New Zealand, Gambhir, along with the team, visited the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Visakhapatnam. These activities reflect Gambhir's belief in fostering a strong team culture that goes beyond the cricket field.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, is considered a strong contender for the T20 World Cup title. With Gambhir's focus on team unity and morale, the team is well-prepared to face the challenges ahead. By creating opportunities for players to connect personally, Gambhir aims to build a cohesive and resilient team ready to compete at the highest level.