Senior Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials informally explored alternatives to Gautam Gambhir as India’s Test coach in the immediate aftermath of the home whitewash against South Africa, with former India great VVS Laxman being sounded out for the role. However, the move did not progress beyond initial conversations, with Laxman opting to continue in his current role at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, according to a PTI report.
Laxman declines as BCCI weighs Gambhir’s red-ball future
As per PTI, Laxman was approached soon after India’s disappointing two-Test series defeat at home last month, a result that intensified scrutiny of Gambhir’s record in red-ball cricket. While Gambhir’s tenure as white-ball coach has delivered silverware, including ICC and ACC titles, his Test record has raised concerns, with India suffering 10 defeats in SENA countries during this period.
Laxman, however, is understood to be content in his position as Head of Cricket at the CoE in Bengaluru and showed no interest in taking over the senior Test side. With limited alternatives available in the red-ball coaching space, this effectively shut the door on an immediate change, despite growing unease within sections of the board.
Gambhir’s contract secure but questions persist
Gambhir’s contract with the BCCI runs until the conclusion of the 2027 ODI World Cup, but PTI reports that his future in Tests could still be reviewed depending on India’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins in five weeks’ time.
While he continues to enjoy strong backing within influential BCCI circles, there is no unanimity on whether he should remain in charge of the red-ball side for the remainder of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
India’s immediate Test calendar includes overseas assignments in Sri Lanka and New Zealand before a high-profile five-Test home series against Australia in early 2027. Meanwhile, concerns have also emerged about uncertainty within the dressing room, with players reportedly feeling less secure compared to the clearly defined roles during Rahul Dravid’s tenure. The BCCI, known for adopting a wait-and-watch approach, is expected to take a more informed call on split coaching or a single head coach across formats after the T20 World Cup and the ensuing IPL window.