After Test failures, BCCI reviews Gautam Gambhir’s role in Team India

Poor Test results under Gautam Gambhir trigger internal BCCI discussions, with VVS Laxman emerging as a strong contender for a dedicated red-ball coaching role

Team India’s inconsistent and disappointing performances in the Test format have caused serious concern within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Following back-to-back setbacks, including a home whitewash against South Africa, the board has quietly begun discussions on a possible coaching restructure.

Gautam Gambhir, who currently serves as India’s head coach, had entered the role with unprecedented backing and complete freedom from the BCCI. His influence over team decisions, including sidelining senior players, has been widely acknowledged within cricketing circles. However, results in red-ball cricket have not matched expectations.

While India has thrived in white-ball formats under Gambhir, the Test team’s journey has taken a sharp downturn. After starting his tenure with a 2-0 Test series win against Bangladesh, India slipped into a prolonged poor run. The team suffered its first home Test series loss in 12 years, followed by a whitewash by New Zealand at home.

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The struggles continued overseas. In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, India lost the series 1-3, crushing hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship final. Although India managed a draw during the England tour, another home whitewash against South Africa deepened the crisis. Within two years, two home whitewash defeats have significantly weakened Gambhir’s position in red-ball cricket.

Sources indicate that several BCCI officials are unhappy with Gambhir’s coaching style, particularly in the Test format. Discussions on replacing him began after the South Africa series and have now gained momentum. However, with the T20 World Cup just a month away, the board is unlikely to make an immediate move that could disrupt team balance.

Instead, the BCCI is seriously considering a split coaching model, retaining Gambhir for ODIs and T20Is, while appointing a separate head coach for Tests.

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In this context, VVS Laxman’s name has resurfaced strongly. After Rahul Dravid’s exit, Laxman was earlier approached but declined the role citing travel commitments. With the role now limited to red-ball cricket, officials believe Laxman may be more open to accepting the position.

Laxman is viewed as an ideal fit due to his vast Test experience, deep understanding of Indian and overseas conditions, and a calm approach that aligns with the patience and discipline required in Test cricket. Unlike aggressive white-ball tactics, his philosophy is seen as better suited for the longest format.

For now, discussions continue behind closed doors. India’s next Test assignment is scheduled in August, and while an immediate decision seems unlikely, the BCCI is expected to take a final call before then.

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