The BCCI has dismissed speculation about removing Gautam Gambhir as India’s head coach despite the team’s 0–2 Test series defeat to South Africa. Gambhir, who succeeded Rahul Dravid in 2024, oversaw his third Test series loss and second home whitewash within a year as India succumbed to a heavy 408-run defeat in the second Test. While Gambhir said after the match that it was up to the board to decide his future, the BCCI has clarified its stance.
BCCI stands firm, no change in coaching role
According to The Indian Express, a senior BCCI official said the board does not intend to take any hasty decisions, emphasising that the team is currently in a transition phase. The official stated that Gambhir’s position is secure, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching and his contract running until the 2027 World Cup.
“The BCCI will not rush in taking any decision; the team is in a transition phase. As far as coach Gautam Gambhir is concerned, we will not take any decision on him as the World Cup is around the corner and his contract is till the 2027 World Cup. The BCCI will speak to selectors and team management going ahead, but there won’t be any knee-jerk action,” the official said.
Gambhir’s Test record as coach so far includes a 2–0 win against Bangladesh, 0–3 loss to New Zealand, 1–3 defeat to Australia, 2–2 draw against England, 2–0 win over West Indies, and the recent 0–2 loss to South Africa.
Responding to questions about his future, Gambhir said he would leave the decision to the board. “Indian cricket is important; I am not important. I am the same guy who got results in England and won the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup. This is a team which is learning,” he said after India’s heaviest Test defeat in Guwahati.
