In his first media meeting since replacing Rahul Dravid, Gautam Gambhir is expected to face tough questions. Gambhir, known for his straightforward commentary on the Indian cricket team’s performance in various formats, may continue this approach as he discusses his plans as the new head coach. He won’t be the only one under scrutiny; Ajit Agarkar, the head of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee, will also be present at the press conference.
Gambhir’s press conference will be challenging, as fans are keen to hear the coach’s thoughts on various topics. Here are the top three issues.
Why Hardik Pandya was not made T20I Captain
Many people feel it’s unfair that Suryakumar Yadav was chosen as the leader in the shortest cricket format. After Rohit Sharma retired from this format, it was widely assumed that Hardik Pandya would take over. But there was a surprising turn of events when Gambhir and Agarkar reportedly supported Suryakumar’s appointment.
It’s important for both of them to clarify why Pandya, who seemed a natural choice, was overlooked for the captaincy.
Gambhir’s press conference will be challenging, as fans are keen to hear the coach’s thoughts on various topics. Here are the top three issues.
Why Hardik Pandya was not made T20I Captain?
Many people feel it’s unfair that Suryakumar Yadav was chosen as the leader in the shortest cricket format. After Rohit Sharma retired from this format, it was widely assumed that Hardik Pandya would take over. But there was a surprising turn of events when Gambhir and Agarkar reportedly supported Suryakumar’s appointment.
It’s important for both of them to clarify why Pandya, who seemed a natural choice, was overlooked for the captaincy.
Why is Gill picked over Ruturaj Gaikwad and Abhishek Sharma?
Shubman Gill, who wasn’t selected for India’s T20 World Cup team in 2024, was named vice-captain for the format, which surprised many people. Gill hasn’t been the standout opening batsman in T20 cricket recently. He just started leading the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League this year, and his leadership skills didn’t impress many. Gill was also appointed vice-captain for India’s ODI series against Sri Lanka.
Everyone knows that Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad have been better T20 opening batsmen than Gill lately. It will be interesting to see what Gambhir and Agarkar think about Gill’s leadership role in the team.
What’s the road ahead for Ravindra Jadeja?
Several reports suggest that Ravindra Jadeja may no longer be part of India’s limited-overs cricket team. He has already stopped playing T20 internationals and was not selected for the recent three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. With only three ODIs left before the Champions Trophy next year, Jadeja’s absence from the team seems to indicate a shift in plans.
Supporters are eager to know what Gambhir envisions for Jadeja’s role in the ODI team.