In the wake of Team India’s recent home series loss to New Zealand, questions have been raised regarding the team’s performance and head coach Gautam Gambhir‘s coaching methods. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) convened an extensive review meeting on Friday, which included key figures such as Captain Rohit Sharma, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, BCCI secretary Jay Shah, president Roger Binny, and Gambhir, who participated remotely.
The meeting focused on several critical issues, including the decision to create a “rank turner” pitch for the Mumbai Test, the choice to rest star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and the effectiveness of Gambhir’s coaching approach.
Reports indicate that Gambhir’s position as the head coach of the Test team may be in jeopardy if India fails to perform well in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The BCCI is contemplating a new coaching model that would involve appointing separate coaches for red-ball (Test) and white-ball (ODI and T20) formats. This restructuring could result in Gambhir’s role being redefined, as he currently oversees all formats.
Should the BCCI move forward with this new plan, VVS Laxman, the chief of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is seen as a likely candidate to take over as the Test coach. Laxman has previously served as interim head coach during Gambhir’s and Rahul Dravid’s absences, demonstrating his capability as a leader.
Under this proposed framework, Gambhir could maintain his focus on the ODI and T20 teams while Laxman would take charge of the Test squad, potentially leading to significant changes in the coaching dynamics within Indian cricket.
As the series against Australia approaches, the Indian team faces immense pressure to perform. Achieving success in this tour, particularly securing a series win in Australia for the third consecutive time, could solidify India’s position in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. India has already made history with back-to-back series victories in Australia, and the stakes are higher than ever to replicate this success. The team’s performance on this tour will likely play a crucial role in determining the future of Gambhir’s coaching tenure.
