Indian cricket coach Gautam Gambhir faces intense scrutiny following India’s historic 408-run defeat to South Africa in Guwahati, marking the team’s largest margin of loss in Test cricket history. The devastating result completed a 2-0 series whitewash against the Proteas and represents India’s fifth defeat in their last seven home matches.
Speaking at a tense post-match press conference, Gambhir deferred to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding his future, stating: ‘Indian cricket is important, I’m not important.’ The 44-year-old former batsman, who succeeded Rahul Dravid after last year’s T20 World Cup victory, has now overseen 10 losses in 19 Tests since his appointment.
The transition period has been particularly challenging following the retirements of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket earlier this year. Captain Shubman Gill’s injury during the South Africa series further complicated matters, forcing wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant to lead an inexperienced lineup. India’s batting collapsed dramatically throughout the series, failing to surpass 201 runs in any innings during the two Tests.
Gambhir defended his young squad, noting that four or five batters in the top eight have played fewer than 15 Tests. ‘They are learning on the job,’ he emphasized, while refusing to make excuses for the performance. The coach also highlighted the simultaneous transition occurring in India’s spin bowling department, which was unexpectedly outclassed by South African off-spinner Simon Harmer’s 17-wicket series haul.
Despite the recent setbacks, Gambhir reminded critics of his successful campaigns, including the drawn Test series in England earlier this year, Champions Trophy victory, and Asian Cup triumph. His contract remains valid until the 2027 ODI World Cup, though mounting pressure from fans and analysts suggests his position may become increasingly untenable without immediate improvement.