BCCI informally approaches THIS stalwart as Gautam Gambhir's replacement amid India’s struggle in Tests- Reports

Gautam Gambhir has come under a massive scanner after India’s two whitewashes at home against New Zealand and South Africa in Tests.

Gautam Gambhir was officially appointed as the head coach of the Indian Cricket Team by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on July 9, 2024. Since then, a lot of changes have taken place, mainly in India’s red-ball format with legends like Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma retiring.

India’s tag of invincibility on home turf has now disappeared, having been whitewashed twice, in their own backyard. The latest drubbing by South Africa, has triggered alarm bells in the BCCI headquarters, and in the spotlight is head coach, Gautam Gambhir.

Gambhir has been criticized a lot for not allowing the batters to settle. In the series against South Africa, India’s batting order was in shambles with different players batting at three. This was in-turn one of main reasons behind loss as no one was sure of his batting spot.

BCCI approaches VVS Laxman to take over India head coach duties in Tests

Reports have now emerged that following the defeat, BCCI approached VVS Laxman, seeking a red-ball coaching replacement. Laxman’s primary role currently is Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), overseeing player development and the new Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

According to PTI, Laxman turned down the request, claiming that he is happy with his current position. BCCI seems to be unhappy with Gambhir’s performance in the longest format.

Gambhir’s contract runs until the 2027 ICC World Cup, but a lot will depend on how the team performs in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

“Gambhir does have strong backing within the power corridors of Indian cricket and obviously, if India retain the T20 World Cup or at least reach the final, he would be seamlessly continuing with his assignment. However, it would be interesting if Gambhir continues in Tests too,” a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity.

Moreover, BCCI is now open to opt for different coaches for red-ball and white-ball. This is a significant U-turn in BCCI’s general stance, as they have historically always been reluctant for multiple coaches.

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