India’s 2-0 Test series loss at home to South Africa has sparked fresh questions about Gautam Gambhir’s role as head coach, even though he continues to deliver strong results in white-ball cricket.
India have been dominant in limited overs under him. They have won back-to-back T20I series, the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2025 Asia Cup. But their Test form has gone the other way and that has started a wider debate.
They have beaten Bangladesh and West Indies in red-ball cricket during his time. But they have lost to New Zealand, Australia and South Africa and managed only a draw in England. Fans are now worried about how the team is performing against top sides.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra agreed that the numbers look worrying. He said, “We have only won two series, against Bangladesh and West Indies. We lost to New Zealand, drew in England, lost to Australia and South Africa as well. We have not been able to win against the top countries.”
He also felt this is not the right time to make drastic calls. Chopra said a break from Test cricket and the upcoming T20 World Cup should give clarity. He said, “Does that mean you should sack him? India do not play another Test match for 10 months. In between, there is the T20 World Cup. We are the defending champions and our performance there will decide the road ahead. Ahead of the tournament, I would not talk about big changes. That includes coaching of Gambhir.”
Former wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel pointed to selection issues. He believed India have drifted away from a proper Test balance. He argued that the team is using too many all-rounders instead of trusting specialists. Parthiv said on Star Sports that Test cricket needs a simple structure. He said, “Are we playing with the right XI? Does India need so many all-rounders in Test cricket? I believe Test cricket is a game of specialists.”
He added that India should trust six batters and use their wicketkeeper, who already has a strong average, as a key part of the core. He said the ideal setup is four bowlers and one all-rounder instead of trying to squeeze in extra options.
For now, Gambhir’s job is not in danger. But the BCCI is expected to reassess his role after the T20 World Cup in 2026. That tournament might decide how long he continues in charge and whether India want a different direction in red-ball cricket.