Why Harbhajan Singh Calls Ashish Nehra a Football Coach in IPL 2026

Gujarat Titans’ recent turnaround in IPL 2026 has brought renewed attention to head coach Ashish Nehra’s unconventional and highly active coaching style.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh offered a striking comparison, likening Nehra to a football coach for his constant involvement during matches.

“Ashish Nehra is the only person who makes the atmosphere comfortable anywhere, anytime. Wherever he goes, he makes everyone around him feel at ease. Not just himself, but everyone who works with him. One of the finest human beings you will ever meet. If you are with him, you are guaranteed to have a good time,” said Singh.

He further elaborated on Nehra’s unique approach: “His biggest contribution to the Gujarat Titans is keeping everyone united. That is Ashish Nehra. He is like a football coach. He never sits still. Throughout the entirety of a match, he will find a player and keep talking to him. Nehra ji has a great understanding of the game. The work he has done with the Gujarat Titans is commendable.”

How have Gujarat Titans performed in IPL 2026 so far?

After a shaky start with two consecutive losses, Gujarat Titans have bounced back strongly, registering three straight wins. This recovery has lifted them to fourth place in the points table, putting them firmly back in contention.

The team’s revival echoes their earlier success under Nehra, who guided them to the IPL title in their debut 2022 season—becoming the first Indian head coach to achieve that feat.

What happened in their latest match against KKR?

In their most recent outing, Gujarat Titans pulled off a composed chase against Kolkata Knight Riders. KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, posted 180 runs after recovering from an early collapse at 32/3.

Cameron Green’s 79 off 55 balls anchored KKR’s innings, supported by partnerships with Rovman Powell and Anukul Roy.

However, Gujarat Titans chased down the target with five wickets in hand and two balls to spare, powered by captain Shubman Gill’s impressive 86-run knock. Kagiso Rabada’s earlier spell of 3/29 also played a crucial role in restricting KKR.

Is Gujarat Titans’ position in the table fully secure?

Despite their three-match winning streak, Gujarat Titans still face challenges. Their Net Run Rate (NRR) remains only slightly above zero, significantly lower than several other teams.

In contrast, table-toppers Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru boast NRRs exceeding +1, highlighting a gap GT will need to close to strengthen their playoff chances.

What lies ahead for Gujarat Titans?

The Shubman Gill-led side will next face Mumbai Indians in Ahmedabad. With momentum on their side but NRR concerns lingering, consistency will be key as the tournament progresses.

Nehra’s energetic, hands-on coaching style—now widely compared to football management—could continue to play a decisive role in shaping Gujarat Titans’ campaign.

(With inputs from ANI)