Former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid has extended his best wishes to Gautam Gambhir as he takes on his first assignment as head coach of the national Test team. Dravid emphasized Gambhir’s extensive experience as both a player and a coach, noting that his presence would be beneficial for the Indian team.

India is currently facing Bangladesh in the first Test of a two-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This series marks India’s return to Test cricket after a six-month break and is part of the World Test Championship (WTC), where India aims to maintain its position at the top of the table.

Gambhir has succeeded Dravid as head coach following Dravid’s tenure, which included leading the team to a 3-0 victory over Sri Lanka in T20Is but a 0-2 defeat in the ODI series.

Dravid praised Gambhir's leadership, saying, "He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great. In any situation, everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," 

Before Gambhir started his new role, Dravid shared a heartfelt audio message. He acknowledged Gambhir’s dedication and passion for Indian cricket, saying, "I know how dedicated and passionate you are about Indian cricket, and I'm sure you will bring all these qualities to this new job,"

Dravid concluded with encouraging words, "From one Indian cricket coach to another, one last thing. In the most heated of times, exhale, take a step back, and even if it's difficult for you, crack a smile. Whatever else happens, that will shock people. I wish you the very best Gautam and I am sure you will take the Indian team to even greater heights."

India's busy schedule includes ten Test matches over the next four months, starting with the two-match series against Bangladesh, followed by three Tests against New Zealand at home and a five-match series in Australia.