The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided not to take any sudden or harsh steps after India suffered another poor Test series loss at home. Head coach Gautam Gambhir will continue in his role. This comes despite strong criticism of his coaching after the team’s recent performances.
On November 26, India were crushed by South Africa by 408 runs in the second Test at Guwahati. It was India’s biggest defeat by runs in Test cricket. This loss sealed a 0-2 series defeat at home. It was also the second time in just over a year that India were whitewashed in a home Test series. These repeated failures led to reports that the BCCI might remove Gambhir. Some reports also claimed that VVS Laxman could replace him as Test coach.
BCCI chooses stability over quick change
However, fresh updates suggest that the BCCI is not planning any immediate change. The board wants stability during a transition phase. Gambhir’s contract runs until the 2027 World Cup. The BCCI believes that long-term planning is more important than quick fixes after one series defeat.
“We are not looking to replace Gautam Gambhir at the moment. He is rebuilding a team. His contract runs till the 2027 World Cup,” BCCI sources told NDTV.
Sources also confirmed that a key meeting will take place after India’s white-ball series against South Africa. The selectors and team management will sit together to review the situation and plan the future of the Test side.
“There will be a meeting between team management and selectors at the end of the South Africa tour. Gambhir will be asked how to pick up the test team’s performance while transitioning,” the sources added.
So far, India’s Test record under Gambhir has been mixed. The team has played 19 Tests during his tenure. India have won only 7 matches. They have lost 10 and drawn 2. This puts his win percentage at under 37 percent. These numbers have raised concerns among fans and experts.
There have been a few positive moments as well. India registered 2-0 home series wins against Bangladesh and the West Indies. But these results have been overshadowed by major defeats. Last year, India lost 0-3 at home to New Zealand. Now, the team has been swept 0-2 by South Africa at home.
The recent defeat has increased pressure on the team management. But for now, the BCCI has made it clear that Gambhir will continue as head coach. The focus will be on rebuilding the team and improving long-term performance rather than making quick changes.
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