Former Indian player Harbhajan Singh has made a bold statement about the new style of coaching in modern cricket amid the ongoing IPL 2026. Coaches of the modern era are becoming active leaders on the field, but sometimes a little behind the scenes.

This change is visible in the IPL, where quick decisions or advice from coaches from the bench or boundary make a big difference. So, Harbhajan feels that teams now need coaches who can guide the players instantly, not just before the match but during every final in this modern era.

One coach stands out in this new trend, and he is none other than former Indian fast bowler and current Gujarat Titans (GT) head coach Ashish Nehra. He has also attracted attention for his high energy and constant participation during games this season.

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Nehra is always seen moving around, talking to the players, giving advice and reacting to every situation. His style is very similar to that of football coaches, who continue to guide their team from the sidelines throughout the game. He doesn’t stay still for a moment.

Makes the environment comfortable anywhere: Harbhajan Singh on GT head coach

And now Harbhajan Singh has compared his former India teammate Nehar with the football team’s managers. The former World Cup winner praised the GT coach for creating a very positive and relaxed atmosphere in the team, which helps them perform better under pressure.

Harbhajan Singh said on JioHotstar’s ‘Waali Champions Commentary’, “Ashish Nehra is the only person who makes the atmosphere comfortable anywhere and anytime. Wherever he goes, he makes everyone around him feel comfortable. Not just him, but everyone who works with him. One of the best human beings you have ever met. If you are with him, you are guaranteed to have a good time.”

Ashish Nehra’s IPL history with Gujarat Titans

This bond and unity within the team is one of the main reasons behind the success of the Gujarat Titans. They made their dream debut in 2022 when they won the IPL trophy under the leadership of Nehra and the captaincy of Hardik Pandya.

In 2023, GT reached the finals but lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Even in 2024, when the Titans went through a slightly difficult phase under Shubman Gill, they continued to trust in Nehra’s approach, and that trust paid off again in 2025, when they made another playoff appearance.

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The ongoing 2026 season of the Gujarat Titans also started off on a rough start but they have now bounced back strongly with three straight wins. Now, GT aims to overtake MI in Ahmedabad on April 20.

Ashish Nehra’s biggest strength is his connection with the players. He continues to communicate with them, supports them through difficult times and keeps the energy high in the dugout. And Harbhajan feels that this type of participation is becoming very important in modern cricket to achieve success.

He signed off saying, “His biggest contribution to Gujarat Titans is keeping everyone together. That is Ashish Nehra. He is like a football coach. He never stands still. Throughout the match, he finds a player and keeps talking to him. Nehra ji has a great knowledge of the game. The work he has done with Gujarat Titans is commendable.”