The curtain has come down on IPL 2026 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defending their title, but attention has now shifted to Team India’s packed international calendar. With major ICC tournaments on the horizon, including the 2027 ODI World Cup and future T20 events, discussions around the team’s long-term direction continue to gather momentum. Amid these conversations, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has identified former fast bowler as his preferred choice to take charge of India’s T20 side in the future.

While Gautam Gambhir remains India’s head coach and is contracted through the 2027 ODI World Cup, there has been speculation that his tenure could be extended further. However, Manjrekar believes that if India ever considers appointing a specialist coach for the shortest format, the ex-cricketer has already built a compelling case through his achievements in the Indian Premier League.

Sanjay Manjrekar names the next coach of India’s T20 side

Speaking on Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast, Manjrekar picked former pacer Ashish Nehra as his choice. He praised Nehra’s cricketing intelligence and his straightforward approach to problem-solving. According to Manjrekar, Nehra possesses a rare ability to assess situations objectively and focus entirely on improving team performance rather than getting distracted by off-field considerations.

“If at all India is looking for a T20 coach, then this is a guy who’s given the results. He has an amazing record. Ashish Nehra is your hardcore street-smart cricketer. If you talk cricket with him, he’s not somebody who will get too emotional, he’ll just be able to look at the problems that his team has,” Manjrekar said.

He further highlighted Nehra’s sharp cricketing mind and his reputation for maintaining honesty in his interactions with players.

“He is a sharp reader of the game, and somebody who doesn’t think too much outside cricket or trying to please somebody and playing these games that you want to play to survive or keep certain people happy, and I think that is where the players see it,” he added.

Impressive record as a coach in IPL

Notably, Nehra has emerged as one of the most respected coaches in franchise cricket since taking charge of Gujarat Titans in their debut IPL season in 2022. Under his guidance, the franchise has consistently remained among the league’s strongest teams. The Titans won the IPL title in their inaugural campaign and have continued to challenge for top honours in the seasons that followed. The team has reached multiple finals and qualified for the playoffs in four of the five seasons under Nehra’s leadership, showcasing remarkable consistency in a highly competitive tournament.

For Manjrekar, these achievements are evidence of Nehra’s ability to build successful teams and manage players effectively. The former batter believes Nehra’s practical understanding of the game sets him apart from many others in the coaching landscape.

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Focus remains on India’s future challenges

For now, Gambhir continues to lead the national side as India prepares for a crucial period that includes bilateral assignments and major ICC competitions. The primary objective remains the 2027 ODI World Cup, but planning for future T20 tournaments is also expected to play a significant role in shaping the team’s roadmap.

Although there is no immediate discussion about a coaching change, Manjrekar’s endorsement has once again brought Nehra’s credentials into the spotlight. Given his impressive IPL record and reputation as a tactically astute leader, the former pacer could well become a strong contender whenever India evaluates its coaching options for the T20 format in the years ahead.

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