Gautam Gambhir coaching tenure with Team India has faced unexpected setbacks, beginning with an ODI series loss in Sri Lanka, followed by a 0-3 clean sweep at home against New Zealand in Tests.
Known for his success with Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, Gambhir entered his coaching role with high expectations. However, as the Indian team struggles in red-ball cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is closely monitoring Gambhir’s performance, especially as India prepares for the critical Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia.
Reports suggest that if India underperforms in Australia, Gambhir may be replaced as Test coach, with VVS Laxman being considered as a potential red-ball specialist. While the BCCI plans to retain Gautam Gambhir as the white-ball coach, a lackluster showing in Australia could lead to a more focused coaching structure. Whether Gautam Gambhir would accept a red-ball coaching transition remains uncertain, particularly if the series against Australia ends in a closely contested outcome, making the decision for BCCI more complex.
In a recent six-hour meeting, Gambhir, alongside BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar and Indian captain Rohit Sharma, analyzed India’s home series loss to New Zealand and addressed key areas needing improvement. It’s reported that Gambhir and the team’s think tank differ on several strategic aspects, particularly around team selection, which may impact preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With growing pressure, Gambhir’s approach in the Australia series could define his future in India’s Test cricket coaching role.
