Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir’s coaching style and his tough decisions have led to speculations of dissatisfaction in the dressing room. Gambhir’s future will now depend on the performance of the Indian team in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. If the team does not perform well, questions may be raised on his coaching career.
Gambhir’s performance so far
- Consequences and criticism:
- Gambhir took over as head coach in July last year.
- During his tenure, India has lost only 6 out of 10 test matches so far.
- India also lost the bilateral ODI series against Sri Lanka.
- Border-Gavaskar Trophy:
- India had to face 1-3 defeat in the series against Australia.
- During this period, reports of differences of opinion between Gambhir and senior players came to light.
Future depends on Champions Trophy
A senior BCCI official said:
“If the Indian team does not perform well in the Champions Trophy, Gambhir’s position may become weak. “His contract is till the 2027 World Cup, but there will be continuous performance review.”
Gambhir’s efforts to end superstar culture and emphasis on team culture are a major cause of disagreement between him and senior players.
The End of Superstar Culture: Gambhir’s Purpose
Gambhir has taken the initiative to end the “superstar culture” in the team.
- Strict example:
- While being the captain of the Delhi Ranji team, he ordered the team to play on the Roshanara ground, which is known for fast pitches.
- But, a senior cricketer insisted on playing at the Jamia Millia Islamia ground, which was close to his home.
- Gambhir rejected his demand.
- Displeasure over Australia tour:
- Gambhir was not happy with the special demands of some star players regarding hotel and practice time.
Players’ complaints and comparison with Greg Chappell
Senior players have criticized Gambhir’s communication style.
- He believes that Gambhir has failed to communicate with the team.
- Some experts compared him to Greg Chappell, whose coaching style had created a lot of controversy in the Indian dressing room.
- A former selector said:
“Chappell’s method will not work in India. The coach should either become friends with the players like Ravi Shastri, or work quietly like Rahul Dravid, Gary Kirsten and John Wright.”
clash with bcci
The presence of Gambhir’s personal assistant with the team has also sparked controversy.
- Complaint of BCCI officials:
- His personal assistant was present everywhere with the team.
- He used the selectors’ vehicle and even entered the BCCI hospitality box.
- Questions were also raised over his presence in the areas reserved for the team.
