Gautam Gambhir's Role as Team India Test Coach under Scrutiny after New Zealand Series Loss

Gautam Gambhir: Following Team India's recent home series defeat to New Zealand, concerns have emerged around the Indian cricket team's performance and head coach Gautam Gambhir's coaching approach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held a lengthy review meeting on Friday, attended by key figures including Captain Rohit Sharma, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, BCCI secretary Jay Shah, president Roger Binny, and Gambhir, who joined the meeting online. 

Key topics of discussion included the decision to prepare a "rank turner" pitch for the Mumbai Test, the choice to rest star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and Gambhir’s coaching methods.

BCCI is considering a new coaching model 

Reports suggest that Gambhir's position as the Test team's head coach may be at risk if India underperforms in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. BCCI is reportedly considering a new coaching model with separate coaches for the red-ball (Test) and white-ball (ODI and T20) formats. This shift could mean that Gambhir, currently in charge across all formats, may see his role redefined.

VVS Laxman as a Possible Replacement

If the BCCI proceeds with this plan, National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief VVS Laxman is likely to take over as the Test coach. Laxman has previously stepped in as interim head coach whenever Gambhir or Rahul Dravid have been unavailable, proving himself as a capable leader. Under the proposed structure, Gambhir could continue focusing on the ODI and T20 teams, while Laxman would assume the Test team coaching responsibilities. This division of roles may lead to a significant transformation in the coaching landscape of Indian cricket.

High Stakes for the Australia Tour

With the upcoming Australia series on the horizon, the pressure is on for the Indian team to deliver strong performances. Success on this tour, especially a series win in Australia for the third consecutive time, could nearly secure India's spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. India has already made history with back-to-back series wins in Australia, and the stakes are higher than ever to repeat this feat. The team’s performance in Australia will likely be a decisive factor in determining the future of Gambhir’s coaching role.