India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has put the decision about his future squarely in the hands of the BCCI after the team suffered a historic 2–0 Test series defeat to South Africa — their first home whitewash against the Proteas in 25 years. Facing the media after the crushing 408-run loss in Guwahati, Gambhir did not ask for sympathy, protection or additional time. Instead, he made it clear that the board must decide whether he deserves to continue.
“It’s for the BCCI to take a call. I’ve always said this — Indian cricket is important, I am not,” Gambhir said. “I’m the same person who delivered results in England, won the Champions Trophy, and the Asia Cup. This team is still growing.”
“Blame Starts with Me” — Gambhir Accepts Responsibility
Gambhir opened the press conference by taking personal responsibility for the series collapse, calling it a collective failure but emphasizing that accountability begins with him.
“Every one of us is responsible, but the blame starts with me,” he said.
He refused to isolate any player or single phase of play despite India’s dramatic slide from 95/1 to 122/7, calling the collapse “unacceptable.”
He added, “You don’t point fingers at individuals. I never did that before, and I won’t do it now. Everyone shares responsibility.”
Troubling Numbers Under Gambhir’s Tenure
India’s performance in the longest format has declined sharply.
- 10 losses in 18 Tests under Gambhir
- A whitewash in New Zealand last year
- Yet another 0–2 defeat, this time against a transitioning South African side
Following the drubbing in New Zealand, the team went through a major reset with multiple new faces introduced. But the story remained the same against South Africa, raising questions about strategy, stability, and readiness.
Criticism Over Frequent Changes & All-Rounder Bias
Gambhir has been criticised for regular experimentation — both in team selection and batting order. Analysts argue that India are trying to build a Test team around too many all-rounders instead of banking on strong specialists.
When asked whether Test cricket requires flamboyant talent or technical depth, Gambhir offered a different perspective.
“For Test cricket, you don’t always need the most gifted players. You need tough characters with limited skills — those are the ones who succeed,” he said.
“Start Prioritising Test Cricket” — Gambhir’s Warning
Looking ahead, Gambhir called for a nationwide shift in how the format is treated.
“If India is serious about Test cricket, then everyone — selectors, players, administrators — must show it. You can’t blame only the players or one individual. A full ecosystem effort is required.”
The message was clear: if Indian cricket wants to regain its red-ball identity, it needs a stronger foundation, stricter selection clarity, and proper long-format preparation.
