The recent Test series loss to New Zealand has raised serious questions about India’s cricket coaching approach. Under head coach Gautam Gambhir, India suffered a historic 0-3 whitewash at home, sparking criticism from fans and experts alike.
Reports now suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India is re-evaluating Gambhir’s role as the coach of the Indian cricket team. According to MyKhel, BCCI may consider appointing separate coaches for different formats, with Gautam Gambhir focusing on white-ball cricket and VVS Laxman potentially stepping in for red-ball (Test) cricket.
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Why is Gautam Gambhir’s India head coach role under scrutiny?
India’s unexpected loss to New Zealand in the Test series has put Gambhir’s coaching style under scrutiny. Reports indicate that Gambhir had influence over pitch preparation and team selection.
Unfortunately, these decisions appeared to backfire, as Indian batters struggled on the turning tracks, leading to three straight losses at home. As a result, BCCI is closely observing Gambhir’s performance, especially with the upcoming series against Australia. If India does not perform well in Australia, BCCI might rethink his position as head coach for the red-ball team.
Will Border Gavaskar trophy be Gautam Gambhir’s last chance?
Gambhir is set to coach India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. However, if India fails to deliver, Gambhir might lose his role as Test coach.
A source close to BCCI mentioned that Gambhir may have to relinquish his responsibilities for the red-ball team if India struggles in Australia. While this outcome is not yet certain, the source hinted that BCCI is prepared to take action if needed.
“If it doesn’t work, he may have to let go of the Test team responsibility for the sake of the country. It is, again, all speculation. We will cross the bridge when it comes,” a source told MyKhel.
More: Border Gavaskar Trophy: Will Rohit Sharma play the first Test at Perth? India captain set to travel to Australia – Reports
Could VVS Laxman take over as Test coach?
In light of India’s recent performance, discussions within BCCI about splitting the coaching roles have resurfaced. If Gambhir fails to meet expectations in Australia, VVS Laxman could be appointed as the red-ball team coach.
Laxman, a respected figure in Indian cricket, currently heads the National Cricket Academy and has stepped in as coach when the main staff has been unavailable. BCCI’s potential choice of Laxman reflects their trust in his ability to manage the Test squad effectively.
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Could different coaches for red-ball and white-ball formats benefit Indian Cricket?
A split coaching system, where one coach handles the limited-overs teams and another manages the Test team, is seen as an effective approach by many cricket boards worldwide. India’s intense international schedule, which demands frequent changes in format, may benefit from such a structure.
If the BCCI chooses this route, it could allow each coach to specialize in strategies and training specific to either red-ball or white-ball cricket, potentially improving the team’s overall performance. With the increasing demands on players and coaches in different formats, this approach could be what Indian cricket needs to strengthen its performance on the global stage.
