Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team could be in jeopardy following concerns about team dynamics and performance issues. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to evaluate his position after India’s performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy, amid reports of discontent in the dressing room. The dissatisfaction stems from Gambhir’s efforts to eradicate the long-standing “superstar culture” within the team.
Since taking over as head coach in July 2024, Gambhir has overseen a challenging period for the Indian team, with six losses in ten Test matches, including a defeat in a bilateral ODI series against Sri Lanka. Adding to the turmoil, the form of senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has been inconsistent, further complicating the team’s fortunes.
However, it’s not just the results that have drawn attention. Gambhir’s coaching methods have led to speculation about rifts within the team, particularly following India’s loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Test series, where India was defeated 1-3. Sources close to the situation suggest that Gambhir’s push to eliminate the superstar culture has caused unease among key players, as he aims to foster a more egalitarian team environment.“
There’s a possibility that the head coach’s position could become untenable if India doesn’t perform well in the Champions Trophy,” a senior BCCI official said. “While Gambhir’s contract is in place until the 2027 World Cup, his performance and the team’s results are continually being evaluated.”
The BCCI has already conducted a review of India’s performance during their recent tour to Australia, and it is understood that Gambhir’s vision for the team’s culture has created a divide. Gambhir’s stance against the superstar culture is well known. He had previously demonstrated this during his time as captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, when he dropped Brendon McCullum from the IPL final. Similarly, as Delhi’s Ranji captain, Gambhir had insisted on playing home matches on pitches that suited the team, despite the preferences of certain star players.
Insiders reveal that Gambhir’s uncompromising attitude toward maintaining discipline and focusing on team performance has made some senior players uncomfortable. His approach to the team culture is said to have led to disagreements regarding logistical demands, including hotel and practice arrangements, during the recent tour of Australia.
The ongoing tensions are not just between Gambhir and the players but also extend to the national selection committee. Sources suggest that the selection committee does not want the head coach to have too much influence over team selections, a sentiment that echoes concerns over former coach Greg Chappell’s tenure, which ended in discord with senior players.“
One cannot follow the ‘Chappell Way’ in India,” a former selector remarked, comparing Gambhir to the Australian. “Either you are media-friendly like Ravi Shastri, or you remain aloof like Rahul Dravid and Gary Kirsten. The approach Gambhir is taking doesn’t seem to resonate well.”
The BCCI’s frustration has also been heightened by incidents involving Gambhir’s personal assistant during the Australian tour. Concerns were raised when Gambhir’s PA was seen shadowing the team, occupying spaces reserved for selectors, and even attending team-related activities, including breakfast sessions. This has raised questions about Gambhir’s management style and his relationship with the BCCI.
As the Champions Trophy approaches, the pressure on Gambhir continues to mount. The tournament, set to take place from February 19 to March 9, could be a decisive moment in determining whether Gambhir’s position as head coach remains secure or if the BCCI opts for a change in leadership. With team dynamics at a critical juncture, the coming weeks will be crucial for both Gambhir and Team India.
