Gambhir turns 45: Ranji call in Class 12 ended his dream of joining the Army

India head coach Gautam Gambhir is celebrating his 45th birthday on October 14. He has made a distinct mark in the world of cricket and has long been counted among India's most successful batters. He is now in charge of the Indian team as head coach. But before he became a cricketer, what was his first love? On his birthday, this episode from his life is being talked about again.

Gambhir said in an interview that since childhood he had dreamt of joining the Indian Army. He wanted to serve his country, and wearing the Army uniform was his ultimate goal. But fate had something else in store. Cricket gradually became an important part of his life, and the same game took him to new heights of success.

Gambhir also said he will always regret not being able to join the Army. For him, the Indian Army was not merely a career option but his first love. Even after success in cricket, his attachment to the Army has not diminished in the least.

A major turning point in his life came during Class 12, when he got the chance to play in the Ranji Trophy. According to Gambhir, this opportunity changed the direction of his career. In an interview he said that had he not played the Ranji Trophy in Class 12, he would definitely have joined the National Defence Academy (NDA). But that chance to play cricket took him away from the dream of joining the Army.

Though the dream of joining the Army went unfulfilled, Gambhir brought glory to the country on the cricket field. As a player he played many memorable innings and had an important role in big Indian victories. His performances in the finals of the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup are still remembered by cricket fans. Gambhir's contribution was key to India's wins in both title clashes.

After a distinguished playing career, Gambhir began a new innings as a mentor and coach. He later became head coach of the Indian cricket team. By representing the country through cricket, he set himself apart. His story shows how a single decision changed the course of his whole life.