Gambhir’s Test Coaching Under Scanner Despite India’s White-Ball Success in 2025
India’s cricketing journey in 2025 has delivered mixed results under head coach Gautam Gambhir. While the team lifted two major white-ball trophies, questions continue to grow around its performance in Test cricket and Gambhir’s future as red-ball coach.
India won the Asia Cup in the T20 format and followed it up with a Champions Trophy triumph in ODIs. These victories strengthened Gambhir’s record in limited-overs cricket. However, India’s struggles in Test matches have raised concerns within cricket circles and among fans.
Poor Test Results Raise Red Flags
India’s Test form has dipped sharply over the past year. In 2024, the team suffered a shocking 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand. The slide continued in 2025 when India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia. Matters worsened after a disastrous tour of South Africa, where the Proteas whitewashed India 2-0 at home.
These defeats have sparked debate over Gambhir’s effectiveness as India’s Test coach. Critics point to repeated failures in crucial bilateral Test series as a worrying trend.
Report Mentions VVS Laxman as Possible Option
Amid growing scrutiny, a report claimed that a senior figure within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informally approached VVS Laxman after the South Africa series. The board reportedly wanted to know if Laxman would be interested in taking charge of India’s red-ball team.
The report added that Laxman remains satisfied in his current role as Head of Cricket at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is not keen on a coaching switch at this stage.
BCCI Backs Gambhir Publicly
Meanwhile, BCCI officials have strongly denied any talks with Laxman. A senior board official said no discussion had taken place, either formally or informally. The official added that the board has full faith in Gambhir and remains committed to him until the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Sources have also made it clear that Gambhir is not facing an immediate threat. His contract runs until the end of the 2027 World Cup cycle.
Future Depends on Upcoming Tournaments
Despite public backing, uncertainty remains. Indian cricket has often seen sudden decisions. Past examples include last-minute squad changes before major tournaments.
According to a report, Gambhir’s contract could still be reviewed based on India’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins in five weeks. Board members are reportedly divided on whether Gambhir should continue as Test coach for the remaining nine matches of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
Challenging Test Calendar Ahead
India’s Test schedule remains demanding. The team recently drew a five-match series 2-2 in England. Upcoming overseas tours include two Tests in Sri Lanka in August 2026 and another two-Test series in New Zealand in October. India will then host Australia for a five-Test series in early 2027.
With high-stakes matches ahead, Gambhir’s red-ball credentials will face close scrutiny.
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