Gautam Gambhir’s position as India’s head coach is under intense scrutiny following a string of disappointing performances, particularly the recent losses on the Australia tour. The team’s struggles have fueled internal discontent, with players reportedly questioning their selection in the playing XI. This series of defeats, five out of the last seven Tests, has jeopardized India’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Only a victory in the final Test against Australia in Sydney offers a glimmer of hope for redemption and WTC qualification.
Sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as reported by PTI, highlight a concerning communication breakdown between the team management and players. Senior players, in particular, have voiced frustration over a lack of transparency regarding their omission from the playing XI – a stark contrast to the perceived clarity under previous coaches Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid. This breakdown in communication is contributing to the growing pressure on Gambhir.
The BCCI is reportedly considering Gambhir’s future. A senior BCCI official stated that if performance doesn’t improve, Gambhir’s position is not secure, extending beyond the upcoming Test match to include the Champions Trophy. This uncertainty stems partly from the fact that Gambhir wasn’t the BCCI’s first choice for the role; VVS Laxman was reportedly preferred, with Gambhir considered a compromise candidate due to the unavailability of other preferred options.
Adding to the pressure, Gambhir’s support staff is also facing criticism. Reports suggest a staff member is accompanied by a personal assistant to all venues, including IPL matches, raising concerns about access to the field of play during IPL games and the individual’s current presence in the BCCI’s dedicated box in Australia. This has reportedly displeased several board members.
India currently trails 1-2 in the five-match series against Australia. A loss in the final Test would not only mark Australia’s first series win since 2014-15 but would also eliminate India from contention for the WTC final, with South Africa already securing their place. The coming days will be critical for Gambhir, as the mounting pressure on both the team and coaching staff hangs heavy over his future.