India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir is facing intense scrutiny following the team’s disappointing performances in recent series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand1
. Appointed to the top post in July 2024, Gambhir’s tenure has been marked by unprecedented defeats, raising questions about his coaching strategies and decisions1
SOURCE : ZEE
The first major setback came during the ODI series against Sri Lanka in August 2024, where India suffered a 0-2 defeat2
. This was the first time in 27 years that India had lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, highlighting the challenges Gambhir faced in his early days as head coach2
. The series loss was unexpected and underscored the need for a reassessment of the team’s approach and tactics2
.
Source:- bbc news
The situation worsened when India faced New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home2
. New Zealand completed a 3-0 whitewash, marking India’s first-ever complete defeat on home turf under such circumstances2
. The series loss was particularly painful as it ended India’s unbeaten run at M Chinnaswamy Stadium after 19 years2
. The defeat also marked India’s first home Test series loss in 12 years2
.
Gambhir’s coaching decisions have come under fire, with critics pointing to his choice of playing conditions and team selection2
. One controversial decision was opting for a rank turner in Mumbai, despite knowing that the top-order had struggled against quality spin bowling on similar pitches in the past2
. This decision backfired, as the Indian batsmen failed to cope with the challenging conditions2
.
Another contentious move was sending pacer Mohammed Siraj as a night-watchman on the second evening of the third Test against New Zealand2
. This decision, along with sending Sarfaraz Khan at No.8 in the first innings, has been questioned by fans and experts alike2
. Gambhir’s philosophy of sticking to a consistent game plan, regardless of the situation, has also been criticized2
.
Despite the setbacks, Gambhir has received support from some quarters for his efforts to instill a positive team culture and his willingness to take bold decisions2
. However, the pressure is mounting, and unless there is a remarkable turnaround in the upcoming Australia tour, Gambhir’s influence on team selection matters may be reduced2
.
The BCCI has given Gambhir a rare seat at the selection committee meeting for the tour of Australia, an exception made considering the magnitude of the tour2
. This move has been seen as a vote of confidence in his abilities, but the results will ultimately determine his future role2
.
As India prepares for the Australia tour, all eyes will be on Gambhir and his ability to turn things around2
. The cricketing world is watching closely, and the upcoming matches will be crucial in shaping the narrative around his coaching tenure.
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