According to a report by news agency PTI, India head coach Gautam Gambhir wanted for fresh talent in the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, starting with the upcoming five-Test series against England. This effectively sealed senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli‘s fate following the disappointing tour of Australia.
During Gambhir’s time in charge, India lost two Test series in a row — one at home to New Zealand and one away to Australia. This meant India failed to reach the WTC final for the first time.
With Rohit, Virat, and Ravichandran Ashwin no longer part of the team, there are not many big names left in the Indian dressing room. This could give Gambhir complete control over the team. He might even become the first Indian head coach to have more power than the captain. The PTI report also says that Gambhir’s main goal is to end the “star culture” in the team.
Ajit Agarkar is also said to be backing Gambhir as both agreed that it was the right time to bring in new players for the England series and the next WTC cycle.
“The Gautam Gambhir era begins now. He was categorical that during the next WTC cycle, India need to have fresh faces,” PTI quoted a BCCI source as saying.
“Everyone associated with decision-making knew where Gambhir stood in terms of carrying seniors in the longest format. Obviously, his and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar’s thoughts aligned,” the source added.
Shubman Gill – The next captain?
Shubman Gill is currently the frontrunner to be India’s next Test captain. Jasprit Bumrah led the team during Rohit Sharma’s absence in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but due to concerns around his workload, he is not expected to take on a long-term leadership role.
The report also says that Gambhir asked the BCCI for full authority so that India doesn’t face setbacks like the series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
However, things won’t be easy. Gambhir needs results now. If India performs poorly against England, people will start questioning whether he’s the right man to lead the Test team.
This England series could be a turning point for Gambhir as India’s red-ball coach. With a young squad expected, it remains to be seen who will step up to replace the experience and presence of Rohit and Kohli in the playing XI.