Indian men’s team head coach Gautam Gambhir said on Thursday that Hardik Pandya is currently not fit enough to bowl ten overs in an ODI, adding that India does not want to rush the all-rounder back into international cricket as he has played very little competitive cricket in the last four months. Pandya remains an important part of India’s limited-overs setup but has regularly been managed due to fitness issues and workload concerns.&nbsp;Gambhir indicated that once Pandya becomes fully fit to bowl, India could potentially play both him and young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in the same XI.&nbsp;“Hardik Pandya can’t bowl 10 overs at the moment. We don’t want to rush him into international cricket. When he is fit, there is a possibility of both he and Nitish playing,” Gambhir said at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;India defeated Afghanistan by 127 runs in the third T20I to complete a 3-0 series sweep.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttler-creates-history-as-first-batter-to-reach-15-000-t20-runs-1789725058738">Jos Buttler creates history as first batter to reach 15,000 T20 runs</a> &nbsp;Gambhir’s comments suggest that Pandya’s return will depend largely on his ability to contribute with the ball as a genuine all-rounder, rather than being picked only for his batting.&nbsp;Pandya was named in the India A squad for the one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, subject to a final fitness assessment by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.&nbsp;He has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2026 due to a series of injuries and was selected for India’s ODI series against Afghanistan in June but suffered a leg injury before the matches.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-north-korean-anthem-plays-during-south-korea-hockey-match-1789728476565">Asian Games 2026: North Korean anthem plays during South Korea hockey match</a>&nbsp;Earlier, he had missed four games for Mumbai Indians due to back spasms and was undergoing conditioning work at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence when he suffered another setback. &nbsp;The 32-year-old is expected to undergo a fitness test next week. While he is likely to be cleared, the selectors remain cautious about rushing him back, given his importance to India’s balance in the 50-over format.

Coach Gautam Gambhir said that Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy could play together for India once Pandya regains full fitness and is able to bowl regularly.

Indian men’s team head coach Gautam Gambhir said on Thursday that Hardik Pandya is currently not fit enough to bowl ten overs in an ODI, adding that India does not want to rush the all-rounder back into international cricket as he has played very little competitive cricket in the last four months. Pandya remains an important part of India’s limited-overs setup but has regularly been managed due to fitness issues and workload concerns. Gambhir indicated that once Pandya becomes fully fit to bowl, India could potentially play both him and young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in the same XI. “Hardik Pandya can’t bowl 10 overs at the moment. We don’t want to rush him into international cricket. When he is fit, there is a possibility of both he and Nitish playing,” Gambhir said at the post-match press conference. India defeated Afghanistan by 127 runs in the third T20I to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Also Read - Jos Buttler creates history as first batter to reach 15,000 T20 runs Gambhir’s comments suggest that Pandya’s return will depend largely on his ability to contribute with the ball as a genuine all-rounder, rather than being picked only for his batting. Pandya was named in the India A squad for the one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, subject to a final fitness assessment by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. He has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2026 due to a series of injuries and was selected for India’s ODI series against Afghanistan in June but suffered a leg injury before the matches. Also Read - Asian Games 2026: North Korean anthem plays during South Korea hockey match Earlier, he had missed four games for Mumbai Indians due to back spasms and was undergoing conditioning work at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence when he suffered another setback. The 32-year-old is expected to undergo a fitness test next week. While he is likely to be cleared, the selectors remain cautious about rushing him back, given his importance to India’s balance in the 50-over format.

Coach Gautam Gambhir said that Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy could play together for India once Pandya regains full fitness and is able to bowl regularly.

'He cannot bowl...': Gautam Gambhir reveals clear plan for Hardik Pandya's India return

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity to get in the playing XI. Gambhir's comments came after India won the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on Thursday (Sep 17) to complete the 3-0 whitewash. There was speculation that Sooryavanshi, 15, might play ahead of Sanju Samson in the final T20I, but Gambhir stayed with the tried and tested opening pair of Samson and Abhishek Sharma. Gambhir's decision paid off as both players scored two fifty-plus scores in three matches.<h2>Gambhir confirms Sooryavanshi will not walk into the team ahead of Samson</h2>"From Vaibhav’s point of view, it was again a very clear conversation that he has to wait for his opportunity. We know the kind of talent he has. We know what he can do, but again, someone who’s done extremely well over a period of two years (Sanju Samson), obviously, he will always be ahead of someone who’s just walked into the team. So, whenever he gets that run, he will get a longer run as well, and that is what Indian cricket is all about. You want competition, you want that talent in the dressing room, but sometimes that’s how cricket goes, whether you’re a 15-year-old or a 30-year-old. When you have to wait for your opportunity, you have to wait for your opportunity," Gambhir said at the post-match presentation.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-abhishek-sharma-scripts-history-surpasses-rohit-sharma-for-fastest-indian-t20i-ton-1789655941283">Abhishek Sharma surpasses Rohit Sharma for fastest Indian T20I ton</a><h2>How has Sooryavanshi performed in T20Is?</h2>The 15-year-old became India's youngest debutant two months ago in England when Samson was dropped after the first two matches of the five-match series. He managed 42 runs in the three games he got. In the next series against Zimbabwe, Sooryavanshi played all three matches and scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 196.10.Gambhir, however, turned back to Samson, who helped India retain the T20 World Cup title earlier this year, for the Afghanistan series.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi must wait his turn as Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma remain the primary T20I openers following a 3-0 series win over Afghanistan.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity to get in the playing XI. Gambhir's comments came after India won the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on Thursday (Sep 17) to complete the 3-0 whitewash. There was speculation that Sooryavanshi, 15, might play ahead of Sanju Samson in the final T20I, but Gambhir stayed with the tried and tested opening pair of Samson and Abhishek Sharma. Gambhir's decision paid off as both players scored two fifty-plus scores in three matches. Gambhir confirms Sooryavanshi will not walk into the team ahead of Samson "From Vaibhav’s point of view, it was again a very clear conversation that he has to wait for his opportunity. We know the kind of talent he has. We know what he can do, but again, someone who’s done extremely well over a period of two years (Sanju Samson), obviously, he will always be ahead of someone who’s just walked into the team. So, whenever he gets that run, he will get a longer run as well, and that is what Indian cricket is all about. You want competition, you want that talent in the dressing room, but sometimes that’s how cricket goes, whether you’re a 15-year-old or a 30-year-old. When you have to wait for your opportunity, you have to wait for your opportunity," Gambhir said at the post-match presentation. Also Read - Abhishek Sharma surpasses Rohit Sharma for fastest Indian T20I ton How has Sooryavanshi performed in T20Is? The 15-year-old became India's youngest debutant two months ago in England when Samson was dropped after the first two matches of the five-match series. He managed 42 runs in the three games he got. In the next series against Zimbabwe, Sooryavanshi played all three matches and scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 196.10. Gambhir, however, turned back to Samson, who helped India retain the T20 World Cup title earlier this year, for the Afghanistan series.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi must wait his turn as Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma remain the primary T20I openers following a 3-0 series win over Afghanistan.

'He will always be ahead': India coach Gambhir says Sooryavanshi won't walk into team ahead of Samson

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav has spoken openly about being left out of India’s playing XI across formats, admitting that he feels disappointed when the team management does not consider him for a match. During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as India’s head coach from Nov 2021 to Jun 2024, Kuldeep played 60 matches across formats, averaging almost two appearances a month. Under Gautam Gambhir, however, he has featured in only 38 matches, around 1.5 games per month.&nbsp;There have been several recent instances where the team management chose not to include Kuldeep. During the three-match ODI series against England, India went with four pacers instead of picking the spinner for the final game.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, Kuldeep was left out after limited involvement in the first Test, with off-spinner Saransh Jain preferred for the second match. Jain failed to take a wicket in that game.&nbsp;“Sometimes you just have to go with the team combination or strategy, unfortunately or fortunately. Definitely you feel bad for yourself when you’re not playing, when you’re not part of the playing XI,” Kuldeep told talkSPORT.&nbsp;“You want to play because when you are in the squad you want to play, but sometimes it doesn’t happen because of whatever the management thinks… Last year, I was hoping to get a chance in a few games, but it’s okay. Maybe next time,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-for-longest-odi-career-1789476290529">Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career</a>&nbsp;With limited opportunities for India, Kuldeep has explored other ways to get match practice. He played for Yorkshire in the County Championship and made a strong impact, taking 10 wickets in three matches at an average of 12.&nbsp;“I personally feel it’s (English county experience) very good for batters and spinners. Obviously, you will see seaming conditions here and there, but you play here to get used to the challenges you face. You’re not going to face them back home because you grew up playing there and you know the conditions pretty well,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-punishes-kranti-gaud-pakistan-team-after-women-s-asia-cup-here-s-why-1789470253890">ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why</a>&nbsp;With Varun Chakaravarthy currently injured and out of the T20I squad, it remains to be seen whether Gambhir and the team management decide to bring Kuldeep back into the side.

Kuldeep Yadav recently claimed his maiden 10-wicket haul in First-Class cricket at Headingley, registering career-best figures of 6 for 50 as Yorkshire secured an innings victory over Essex.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav has spoken openly about being left out of India’s playing XI across formats, admitting that he feels disappointed when the team management does not consider him for a match. During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as India’s head coach from Nov 2021 to Jun 2024, Kuldeep played 60 matches across formats, averaging almost two appearances a month. Under Gautam Gambhir, however, he has featured in only 38 matches, around 1.5 games per month. There have been several recent instances where the team management chose not to include Kuldeep. During the three-match ODI series against England, India went with four pacers instead of picking the spinner for the final game. In the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, Kuldeep was left out after limited involvement in the first Test, with off-spinner Saransh Jain preferred for the second match. Jain failed to take a wicket in that game. “Sometimes you just have to go with the team combination or strategy, unfortunately or fortunately. Definitely you feel bad for yourself when you’re not playing, when you’re not part of the playing XI,” Kuldeep told talkSPORT. “You want to play because when you are in the squad you want to play, but sometimes it doesn’t happen because of whatever the management thinks… Last year, I was hoping to get a chance in a few games, but it’s okay. Maybe next time,” he said. Also Read - Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career With limited opportunities for India, Kuldeep has explored other ways to get match practice. He played for Yorkshire in the County Championship and made a strong impact, taking 10 wickets in three matches at an average of 12. “I personally feel it’s (English county experience) very good for batters and spinners. Obviously, you will see seaming conditions here and there, but you play here to get used to the challenges you face. You’re not going to face them back home because you grew up playing there and you know the conditions pretty well,” he said. Also Read - ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why With Varun Chakaravarthy currently injured and out of the T20I squad, it remains to be seen whether Gambhir and the team management decide to bring Kuldeep back into the side.

Kuldeep Yadav recently claimed his maiden 10-wicket haul in First-Class cricket at Headingley, registering career-best figures of 6 for 50 as Yorkshire secured an innings victory over Essex.

'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results.<h2>How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free</h2>The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-india-s-smriti-mandhana-is-now-best-batter-ever-in-women-s-cricket-1788491747077">Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket</a>The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward.""The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries."<h2>What is next for the Indian men's cricket team?</h2>The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results. How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches." Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward." "The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries." What is next for the Indian men's cricket team? The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia shares how board is planning to keep players injury free

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a <a href="https://yas.gov.in/sites/default/files/Asian_Games_sanction_for_coaches_and_suppor_%20staff.pdf">circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs</a> and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's).<h2>Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026?</h2>This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-s-from-all-players-pakistan-skipper-babar-azam-exchange-with-uk-king-charles-goes-viral-1788425476025">'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral</a>The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah.<h2>What about the India women's team?</h2>The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's). Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026? This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series. Also Read - 'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah. What about the India women's team? The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Shreyas Iyer-led side

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has slammed the hype around Test rankings and talks about India’s slump in red-ball cricket. For the first time since beating West Indies in a home Test series in October, India won a Test match in Galle earlier this week. India, the two-time WTC finalists, currently sit fifth in the ongoing cycle with five wins, four losses, and a draw in 10 contested matches. For India to qualify for their third WTC final, they must at least win six of their remaining eight matches; Gambhir, however, feels no outside noise can affect his goal: to win ICC trophies for India. &nbsp;"Rankings do not matter. We are not struggling. Since the England tour, we have played reasonable Test cricket," Gambhir said ahead of the Colombo Test.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-backs-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-test-cricket-revival-1787384969431">Rahul Dravid backs 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to lead Test cricket revival</a> &nbsp;Since Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Test retirements last year, India drew the away Test series in England (2-2), only beat the West Indies at home (2-0) but suffered a clean sweep against South Africa (0-2) in November – their second since losing a three-match home Test series (0-3) to New Zealand in late 2024. Even though India’s Test cricket is not close to its best, Gambhir feels the team hasn’t performed badly in Tests, and it’s going through a transition period. &nbsp;"My job is to win trophies, not to garner views and likes. We’re not doing too badly in Test cricket since England, and this team is going through a transition phase," he added. &nbsp;However, in their first away Test on this tour, India beat Sri Lanka by 165 runs, with spinners doing the major damage. Newcomer Manav Suthar has become an emerging star following his second five-wicket haul in only his second Test, and a maiden 10-wicket haul in the game. On the contrary, ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav has struggled to trouble the batters across formats. &nbsp;Speaking on providing him with an extended rope despite his lean patch, Gambhir said, "We will try to field the best bowling attack that can get us 20 wickets. Kuldeep is a good bowler, and sometimes it's up to the captain as well.”

Gautam Gambhir defends India's Test record, asserting his job is to win trophies rather than chase views. Read his thoughts on WTC qualification, transition, and player backing. 

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has slammed the hype around Test rankings and talks about India’s slump in red-ball cricket. For the first time since beating West Indies in a home Test series in October, India won a Test match in Galle earlier this week. India, the two-time WTC finalists, currently sit fifth in the ongoing cycle with five wins, four losses, and a draw in 10 contested matches. For India to qualify for their third WTC final, they must at least win six of their remaining eight matches; Gambhir, however, feels no outside noise can affect his goal: to win ICC trophies for India. "Rankings do not matter. We are not struggling. Since the England tour, we have played reasonable Test cricket," Gambhir said ahead of the Colombo Test. Also read| Rahul Dravid backs 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to lead Test cricket revival Since Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Test retirements last year, India drew the away Test series in England (2-2), only beat the West Indies at home (2-0) but suffered a clean sweep against South Africa (0-2) in November – their second since losing a three-match home Test series (0-3) to New Zealand in late 2024. Even though India’s Test cricket is not close to its best, Gambhir feels the team hasn’t performed badly in Tests, and it’s going through a transition period. "My job is to win trophies, not to garner views and likes. We’re not doing too badly in Test cricket since England, and this team is going through a transition phase," he added. However, in their first away Test on this tour, India beat Sri Lanka by 165 runs, with spinners doing the major damage. Newcomer Manav Suthar has become an emerging star following his second five-wicket haul in only his second Test, and a maiden 10-wicket haul in the game. On the contrary, ace spinner Kuldeep Yadav has struggled to trouble the batters across formats. Speaking on providing him with an extended rope despite his lean patch, Gambhir said, "We will try to field the best bowling attack that can get us 20 wickets. Kuldeep is a good bowler, and sometimes it's up to the captain as well.”

Gautam Gambhir defends India's Test record, asserting his job is to win trophies rather than chase views. Read his thoughts on WTC qualification, transition, and player backing.&nbsp;

‘Rankings don’t matter; my job is to win trophies’: Gautam Gambhir defends India’s Test slump

India's 2011 ODI World Cup winning coach Gary Kirsten, who currently is head coach of Sri Lanka team, has backed India coach Gautam Gambhir amid the scrutiny around him. Gambhir has been criticised for loss in Test series against New Zealand and South Africa at home, but has coached India to two ICC trophies since taking over in 2024 from Rahul Dravid. Notably, Gambhir also played the important 97-run innings during the 2011 ODI World Cup final which India won under Kirsten.<h2>Gary Kirsten backs Gambhir as India coach</h2>India are currently in Sri Lanka for two-Test series and the series is very crucial for India's World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 Final aspirations. The India team is without Jasprit Bumrah as pace spearhead and Sai Sudharsan as well. Kirsten, meanwhile, has backed Gambhir as the Indian coach, citing his record.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ban-1st-test-smith-agrees-he-certainly-felt-something-on-drs-snicko-controversy-1786680861675">AUS vs BAN, 1st Test: Smith agrees he 'certainly felt something' on DRS-Snicko controversy</a>"He (Gambhir) is a fantastic coach. He has had incredible success, won two World Cups (Kirsten referring to 2025 Champions Trophy and 2026 T20 World Cup). He’s also had success in the IPL (KKR winning IPL 2024 with him as mentor), so his record speaks for itself. I really enjoyed working with him. I knew he’d have success as a coach as well,” said Kirsten ahead of the first Test which starts August 15.<h2>India's WTC 2025-27 standings</h2>India are currently fifth (48.15%) on the WTC 2025-27 cycle with four wins, four losses, and one draw in nine Tests. Sri Lanka (41.67%) are right under India with one win, one loss, and two draws from four Tests played so far. Along with Bumrah, Nitish Reddy, Akash Deep, Sai Sudharsan, and Washington Sundar are also out injured, putting a lot of pressure on the inexperienced Indian team.<a href="https://www.bcci.tv/news/article/indias-squad-for-the-tour-of-sri-lanka-announced-2026">India’s squad for Sri Lanka Tests</a> – Shubman Gill (captain), K L Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (w/k), Dhruv Jurel (w/k), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan

Former India coach Gary Kirsten backed Gautam Gambhir, highlighting his ICC trophy wins, as India prepare for a crucial Sri Lanka Test series amid recent home losses and WTC standings pressure.

India's 2011 ODI World Cup winning coach Gary Kirsten, who currently is head coach of Sri Lanka team, has backed India coach Gautam Gambhir amid the scrutiny around him. Gambhir has been criticised for loss in Test series against New Zealand and South Africa at home, but has coached India to two ICC trophies since taking over in 2024 from Rahul Dravid. Notably, Gambhir also played the important 97-run innings during the 2011 ODI World Cup final which India won under Kirsten. Gary Kirsten backs Gambhir as India coach India are currently in Sri Lanka for two-Test series and the series is very crucial for India's World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 Final aspirations. The India team is without Jasprit Bumrah as pace spearhead and Sai Sudharsan as well. Kirsten, meanwhile, has backed Gambhir as the Indian coach, citing his record. Also Read - AUS vs BAN, 1st Test: Smith agrees he 'certainly felt something' on DRS-Snicko controversy "He (Gambhir) is a fantastic coach. He has had incredible success, won two World Cups (Kirsten referring to 2025 Champions Trophy and 2026 T20 World Cup). He’s also had success in the IPL (KKR winning IPL 2024 with him as mentor), so his record speaks for itself. I really enjoyed working with him. I knew he’d have success as a coach as well,” said Kirsten ahead of the first Test which starts August 15. India's WTC 2025-27 standings India are currently fifth (48.15%) on the WTC 2025-27 cycle with four wins, four losses, and one draw in nine Tests. Sri Lanka (41.67%) are right under India with one win, one loss, and two draws from four Tests played so far. Along with Bumrah, Nitish Reddy, Akash Deep, Sai Sudharsan, and Washington Sundar are also out injured, putting a lot of pressure on the inexperienced Indian team. India’s squad for Sri Lanka Tests – Shubman Gill (captain), K L Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (w/k), Dhruv Jurel (w/k), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan

Former India coach Gary Kirsten backed Gautam Gambhir, highlighting his ICC trophy wins, as India prepare for a crucial Sri Lanka Test series amid recent home losses and WTC standings pressure.

IND vs SL: India's 2011 ODI WC winning coach Kirsten backs Gambhir as coach amid scrutiny

Indian cricket is working towards its next goal - the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027 - and Rohit Sharma is one name keeping the selectors and the team management thinking. While the decision-makers continue to contemplate Rohit’s position in the playing XI for the showpiece event, considering he will be turning 40 by the time the World Cup gets underway, his former India teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the veteran opener to retain his place. &nbsp;Rahane, who announced his international retirement recently, has urged the head coach (Gautam Gambhir) and BCCI chief selector (Ajit Agarkar) to bring clarity into Rohit’s case. Rahane feels that for someone of Rohit’s stature, he deserves to be in the starting XI without a doubt, while also asking the duo to communicate the same to Rohit.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brett-lee-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-age-debate-15-years-old-1786251891060">‘If he’s 15, fantastic, but if he’s 17 or 18, who cares?’: Brett Lee on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi age debate</a> &nbsp;Having faced selection snubs since his exploits in the 2023 WTC Final against Australia, Rahane explained what happens when a player's position remains in limbo. He further noted that cricket is all about rhythm, and bringing clarity to players helps them be in the right space.<h2>‘Cricket is About Rhythm’</h2>"I think it's important to tell Rohit Sharma that he's going to play the 2027 World Cup," Rahane said in a statement to The Indian Express. "If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it's been amazing. So, you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup. That discussion shouldn't even happen. If you say once, 'Rohit Sharma, you're going to play,' that's it. You can't go series by series because he's such a big player.” &nbsp;"If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it's about rhythm.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you've played, whether you're a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it's about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset. As for Rohit's quality, there's no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn't even happen between the team management and the captain,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Rohit last appeared for India during the away England ODIs, scoring a magnificent hundred in the deciding One-Dayer at Lord’s. Speculations that Rohit would end his decorated 50-over career at Lord’s ahead of that match made headlines, with the selectors communicating their plans to him, but his 138 answered all questions. &nbsp;Should Rohit continue, his next assignment will be the home ODI series against the West Indies starting in late September.&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane urges Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar to offer Rohit Sharma full clarity regarding his role in India's 2027 ODI World Cup plans.

Indian cricket is working towards its next goal - the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027 - and Rohit Sharma is one name keeping the selectors and the team management thinking. While the decision-makers continue to contemplate Rohit’s position in the playing XI for the showpiece event, considering he will be turning 40 by the time the World Cup gets underway, his former India teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the veteran opener to retain his place. Rahane, who announced his international retirement recently, has urged the head coach (Gautam Gambhir) and BCCI chief selector (Ajit Agarkar) to bring clarity into Rohit’s case. Rahane feels that for someone of Rohit’s stature, he deserves to be in the starting XI without a doubt, while also asking the duo to communicate the same to Rohit. Also read| ‘If he’s 15, fantastic, but if he’s 17 or 18, who cares?’: Brett Lee on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi age debate Having faced selection snubs since his exploits in the 2023 WTC Final against Australia, Rahane explained what happens when a player's position remains in limbo. He further noted that cricket is all about rhythm, and bringing clarity to players helps them be in the right space. ‘Cricket is About Rhythm’ "I think it's important to tell Rohit Sharma that he's going to play the 2027 World Cup," Rahane said in a statement to The Indian Express. "If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it's been amazing. So, you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup. That discussion shouldn't even happen. If you say once, 'Rohit Sharma, you're going to play,' that's it. You can't go series by series because he's such a big player.” "If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it's about rhythm. "Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you've played, whether you're a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it's about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset. As for Rohit's quality, there's no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn't even happen between the team management and the captain,” he continued. Meanwhile, Rohit last appeared for India during the away England ODIs, scoring a magnificent hundred in the deciding One-Dayer at Lord’s. Speculations that Rohit would end his decorated 50-over career at Lord’s ahead of that match made headlines, with the selectors communicating their plans to him, but his 138 answered all questions. Should Rohit continue, his next assignment will be the home ODI series against the West Indies starting in late September.

Ajinkya Rahane urges Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar to offer Rohit Sharma full clarity regarding his role in India's 2027 ODI World Cup plans.

‘Important to Tell Rohit about World Cup Plans’: Agarkar, Gambhir urged to bring clarity

After a disappointing tour of the United Kingdom, Team India begins a crucial three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. With several senior players rested, all eyes are on young stars, especially 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who returns to the venue where he led India to the Under-19 World Cup title. Captain Shreyas Iyer faces mounting pressure after India's poor run in England, while Gautam Gambhir will look for a strong comeback from his side.

Can India's young brigade turn things around against Zimbabwe? Watch our full preview of the 1st T20I, probable playing XI, key players, and everything you need to know.

India Begin Zimbabwe T20 Series With Young Squad As Pressure Mounts On Gautam Gambhir

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed the International Cricket Council (ICC) proposal to allow the use of a pink ball in place of the traditional red ball when Test matches are interrupted due to poor light. His comments came ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, a match that could potentially be affected by fading light conditions.&nbsp;Gambhir emphasised that teams should not miss crucial opportunities to have a result due to factors beyond their control. He added that losing valuable playing time because of bad light could have significant consequences, especially in the race for qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters on Friday (Jun 5), Gambhir said he fully supports the initiative, arguing that every effort should be made to ensure matches reach a meaningful conclusion. He pointed out that it would be disappointing for a team to miss out on WTC qualification after two years of hard work simply because weather or light conditions prevented play.&nbsp;"I love that because I've always believed that if there's an opportunity to get a result, you should always have that opportunity. Imagine if you are playing the last Test match before the World Test Championship final and you have the chance to win that Test match to qualify, but because of bad light, it's not happening. So I'm all for it," Gambhir said on Friday.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2026-final-maja-chwalinska-s-fairytale-run-faces-its-biggest-test-against-mirra-andreeva-1780640837748">French Open 2026 Final: History-maker Maja Chwalinska vs in-form Mirra Andreeva</a> "If there's an opportunity to get the result, if both teams agree to it... I know it could be a little unfair and difficult for the players, but imagine working hard for two years and the last Test match before the World Test Championship final, if you don't play five days because of bad light, how unfair that could be. So I think it's a proactive move, it's a positive move, and, hopefully, the teams will start taking it in a positive way," he added.&nbsp;India enter the Afghanistan Test after a difficult home series against South Africa, where they were beaten 2-0. The team currently occupies sixth place in the WTC standings, having secured 48.15 percent of the available points from nine matches.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed the International Cricket Council (ICC) proposal to use a pink ball instead of the traditional red ball as a way to reduce disruptions caused by poor light in Test cricket.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed the International Cricket Council (ICC) proposal to allow the use of a pink ball in place of the traditional red ball when Test matches are interrupted due to poor light. His comments came ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, a match that could potentially be affected by fading light conditions. Gambhir emphasised that teams should not miss crucial opportunities to have a result due to factors beyond their control. He added that losing valuable playing time because of bad light could have significant consequences, especially in the race for qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Speaking to reporters on Friday (Jun 5), Gambhir said he fully supports the initiative, arguing that every effort should be made to ensure matches reach a meaningful conclusion. He pointed out that it would be disappointing for a team to miss out on WTC qualification after two years of hard work simply because weather or light conditions prevented play. "I love that because I've always believed that if there's an opportunity to get a result, you should always have that opportunity. Imagine if you are playing the last Test match before the World Test Championship final and you have the chance to win that Test match to qualify, but because of bad light, it's not happening. So I'm all for it," Gambhir said on Friday. Also Read - French Open 2026 Final: History-maker Maja Chwalinska vs in-form Mirra Andreeva "If there's an opportunity to get the result, if both teams agree to it... I know it could be a little unfair and difficult for the players, but imagine working hard for two years and the last Test match before the World Test Championship final, if you don't play five days because of bad light, how unfair that could be. So I think it's a proactive move, it's a positive move, and, hopefully, the teams will start taking it in a positive way," he added. India enter the Afghanistan Test after a difficult home series against South Africa, where they were beaten 2-0. The team currently occupies sixth place in the WTC standings, having secured 48.15 percent of the available points from nine matches. With inputs from agencies

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed the International Cricket Council (ICC) proposal to use a pink ball instead of the traditional red ball as a way to reduce disruptions caused by poor light in Test cricket.

'If there’s an opportunity to get a result…': Gambhir in favour of red-ball and pink-ball switch

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan here is a look at five batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL. The list also consists names like Parthiv Patel, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner after Rahane has topped the unwanted club.

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan here is a look at five batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL. The list also consists names like Parthiv Patel, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner after Rahane has topped the unwanted club.

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan, 5 batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL

From Rajat Patidar to Gautam Gambhir here is a list of five captains with most consecutive wins in IPL history. The prestigious also features the likes of Shane Warne, Shreyas Iyer and MS Dhoni. 

From Rajat Patidar to Gautam Gambhir here is a list of five captains with most consecutive wins in IPL history. The prestigious also features the likes of Shane Warne, Shreyas Iyer and MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

From Rajat Patidar to Gautam Gambhir, 5 captains with most consecutive wins in IPL history

Former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who led the team to first ever T20 World Cup during inaugural edition back in 2007, has congratulated the current team and coach Gautam Gambhir for Sunday's victory. India beat New Zealand on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for a record third T20 World Cup title. With the win, India are now first to win three T20 WC title, first to win a T20 WC title at home, and also the first to defend a T20 WC title. Rohit Sharma had also led India to T20 World Cup title win in 2024.<h2>What did Dhoni say about Gambhir?</h2>The two players, who played pivotal role in India's 2007 T20 WC as well as 2011 ODI World Cup win, are constantly pitted against each other on social media by the fans. Both of them, however, have never taken each other's name in any form of critical comments.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-dedicates-title-win-to-cousin-who-died-a-day-before-final-1773016829832">T20 WC 2026 | Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final'</a>Dhoni, who was present at the venue, took to Instagram after India's win and wrote: "History gets created at Ahmedabad,big congratulations to the team and support staff and to all the fans of Indian Cricket Team worldwide.such a pleasure to see all of u play. Coach Sahab (Sir) smile looks great on u, intensity with smile is a killer combo, very well done.enjoy guys. BUMRAH ke baare mein kuch na likhoon tou hi acha hai (better not to write anything about Bumrah.CHAMPION BOWLER."

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<h2>What next for India?</h2>After winning the third ICC white-ball title in as many years, India, as T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav after the match on Sunday (Mar 8), has set the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-win-t20-wc-2026-skipper-sky-sets-new-target-for-team-and-it-is-not-another-t20-world-cup-title-1773025498049">sight on LA28 Olympic gold medal</a>.The LA28 Olympics will be played from July 14 and 29 nearly two years later in Los Angeles, USA. Top six teams in the ICC men's and women's rankings, one each from a continent, will qualify for the Olympics and India men's team is all but sure to qualify from Asia. All the matches will be played at the temporary Fairgrounds Stadium, in the city of Pomona, about 50km from Los Angeles.&nbsp;

Dhoni and Gambhir, who played pivotal role in India's 2007 T20 WC as well as 2011 ODI World Cup win, are constantly pitted against each other on social media by the fans. Both of them, however, have never taken each other's name in any form of critical comments.

Former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who led the team to first ever T20 World Cup during inaugural edition back in 2007, has congratulated the current team and coach Gautam Gambhir for Sunday's victory. India beat New Zealand on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for a record third T20 World Cup title. With the win, India are now first to win three T20 WC title, first to win a T20 WC title at home, and also the first to defend a T20 WC title. Rohit Sharma had also led India to T20 World Cup title win in 2024. What did Dhoni say about Gambhir? The two players, who played pivotal role in India's 2007 T20 WC as well as 2011 ODI World Cup win, are constantly pitted against each other on social media by the fans. Both of them, however, have never taken each other's name in any form of critical comments. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final' Dhoni, who was present at the venue, took to Instagram after India's win and wrote: "History gets created at Ahmedabad,big congratulations to the team and support staff and to all the fans of Indian Cricket Team worldwide.such a pleasure to see all of u play. Coach Sahab (Sir) smile looks great on u, intensity with smile is a killer combo, very well done.enjoy guys. BUMRAH ke baare mein kuch na likhoon tou hi acha hai (better not to write anything about Bumrah.CHAMPION BOWLER."

Dhoni and Gambhir, who played pivotal role in India's 2007 T20 WC as well as 2011 ODI World Cup win, are constantly pitted against each other on social media by the fans. Both of them, however, have never taken each other's name in any form of critical comments.

INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | 'Intensity with smile is...,' MS Dhoni's post for COACH Gautam Gambhir breaks internet

India head coach gauta Gambhir lauded the players' team first mentality after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-new-zealand-in-ahmedabad-to-win-3rd-t20-world-cup-title-script-history-sanju-samson-abhishek-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-shivam-dube-1772987200533">record third T20 World Cup title win</a> on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well. The Indian head coach, at the post-match presentation, also vowed to never let personal milestone come in the way of team.<h2>What India coach Gambhir said about personal milestones after T20 WC title win?</h2>"My simple philosophy, and Surya's too, has always been that milestones don't matter. It's the trophies that matter. For too long in Indian cricket, we have spoken about milestones. And I hope, till I am there, we are not going to talk about milestones," said the head coach at the post-match presentation.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-dedicates-title-win-to-cousin-who-died-a-day-before-final-1773016829832">T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final'</a>The coach also invoked Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson's example to explain on his ideology and said: "You can see the last three games what Sanju [Samson] did. 97 not out, 89, 88. Imagine if he had been playing for a milestone, probably we wouldn't have got 250. So stop celebrating milestones, celebrate trophies. The bigger purpose of a team sport is to win trophies, not score individual runs. It has never mattered to me, and it will never matter to me."<h2>Why did Gambhir thank Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman for India's T20 WC win?</h2>The India coach also thanked his predecessor Rahul Dravid as well as BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman for their invalueable contirbution to the Indian cricket which helped the Suryakumar Yadav's team to win the T20 World Cup 2026 title."I think first of all I should dedicate this trophy to Rahul [Dravid] bhai, and then to VVS Laxman [bhai]," Gambhir said. "Because what Rahul bhai has done to keep Indian cricket in such a good shape during his tenure, I have to thank him for everything. And then VVS Laxman for unconditionally doing so much for Indian cricket behind the doors, because the CoE remains the pipeline for Indian cricket."

Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well.

India head coach gauta Gambhir lauded the players' team first mentality after the record third T20 World Cup title win on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well. The Indian head coach, at the post-match presentation, also vowed to never let personal milestone come in the way of team. What India coach Gambhir said about personal milestones after T20 WC title win? "My simple philosophy, and Surya's too, has always been that milestones don't matter. It's the trophies that matter. For too long in Indian cricket, we have spoken about milestones. And I hope, till I am there, we are not going to talk about milestones," said the head coach at the post-match presentation. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final' The coach also invoked Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson's example to explain on his ideology and said: "You can see the last three games what Sanju [Samson] did. 97 not out, 89, 88. Imagine if he had been playing for a milestone, probably we wouldn't have got 250. So stop celebrating milestones, celebrate trophies. The bigger purpose of a team sport is to win trophies, not score individual runs. It has never mattered to me, and it will never matter to me." Why did Gambhir thank Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman for India's T20 WC win? The India coach also thanked his predecessor Rahul Dravid as well as BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman for their invalueable contirbution to the Indian cricket which helped the Suryakumar Yadav's team to win the T20 World Cup 2026 title. "I think first of all I should dedicate this trophy to Rahul [Dravid] bhai, and then to VVS Laxman [bhai]," Gambhir said. "Because what Rahul bhai has done to keep Indian cricket in such a good shape during his tenure, I have to thank him for everything. And then VVS Laxman for unconditionally doing so much for Indian cricket behind the doors, because the CoE remains the pipeline for Indian cricket."

India win record third T20 World Cup title on Sunday (Mar 8).India beat New Zealand by 96 runs to defend title.Gambhir's second title as coach after leading India to Champions Trophy 2025 win.

INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | 'Never mattered to me,' coach Gambhir lauds players' mentality after record title win

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir strongly praised Sanju Samson after his unbeaten 97 helped India reach the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Gambhir said the innings showed the “real potential” that the team always believed Samson had. He scored a brilliant 97 not out at the Eden Gardens, leading India to a five-wicket win over West Indies in an important Super Eight match. The victory kept India’s hopes alive of defending their T20 World Cup title at home.&nbsp;After the match, Gambhir said everyone in the team knows Samson is a world-class player. He explained that the team continued to support him and when India needed him most, he delivered. Gambhir added that he hopes this innings is just the beginning, with two more matches left in the tournament.&nbsp;“Sanju is a world-class player, we all know how good a player he is. And it was all about backing him. And then when the team needed him the most, obviously today was a day where he probably showed his true potential, and hopefully, this is a time for him to kick off and probably two more games to go,” Gambhir told reporters after the match.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-tour-of-india-2026-full-schedule-match-timings-and-venues-1772435094703">Afghanistan tour of India 2026: Full schedule, match timings and venues</a>&nbsp;Gambhir further said that he was impressed with how simple and controlled Samson’s batting was and noted that Samson did not try to hit the ball too hard but played proper cricket shots. According to him, this shows Samson’s natural talent. He added that Samson had been batting well in practice and it was about showing that skill in the match.&nbsp;“Look, I actually thought that he never accelerated the innings. It was just a very, very normal cricketing shot, and I never saw any muscling the ball as well, and that is the kind of talent he has. When you know that you're in control of the game and you know that you're feeling good, he's hitting the ball really well in the nets and it's about going in the middle and showcasing that skill that you had,” said Gambhir.&nbsp;Gambhir once again said he has always believed in Samson’s talent and hopes he continues to play more such match-winning innings. He also dismissed criticism about Samson’s past scores, saying that coming back into the team and playing such an important knock would give him great confidence.&nbsp;

India’s five-wicket victory over the West Indies secured them a place in the semi-finals. They will now face England at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir strongly praised Sanju Samson after his unbeaten 97 helped India reach the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Gambhir said the innings showed the “real potential” that the team always believed Samson had. He scored a brilliant 97 not out at the Eden Gardens, leading India to a five-wicket win over West Indies in an important Super Eight match. The victory kept India’s hopes alive of defending their T20 World Cup title at home. After the match, Gambhir said everyone in the team knows Samson is a world-class player. He explained that the team continued to support him and when India needed him most, he delivered. Gambhir added that he hopes this innings is just the beginning, with two more matches left in the tournament. “Sanju is a world-class player, we all know how good a player he is. And it was all about backing him. And then when the team needed him the most, obviously today was a day where he probably showed his true potential, and hopefully, this is a time for him to kick off and probably two more games to go,” Gambhir told reporters after the match. Also Read - Afghanistan tour of India 2026: Full schedule, match timings and venues Gambhir further said that he was impressed with how simple and controlled Samson’s batting was and noted that Samson did not try to hit the ball too hard but played proper cricket shots. According to him, this shows Samson’s natural talent. He added that Samson had been batting well in practice and it was about showing that skill in the match. “Look, I actually thought that he never accelerated the innings. It was just a very, very normal cricketing shot, and I never saw any muscling the ball as well, and that is the kind of talent he has. When you know that you're in control of the game and you know that you're feeling good, he's hitting the ball really well in the nets and it's about going in the middle and showcasing that skill that you had,” said Gambhir. Gambhir once again said he has always believed in Samson’s talent and hopes he continues to play more such match-winning innings. He also dismissed criticism about Samson’s past scores, saying that coming back into the team and playing such an important knock would give him great confidence.

India’s five-wicket victory over the West Indies secured them a place in the semi-finals. They will now face England at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

‘He showed his true potential’: Gautam Gambhir lauds Samson’s unbeaten 97 against West Indies

Sanju Samson's record innings of 97 not out against West Indies on Sunday (Mar 1) a Eden Gardens in Kolkata put India in the semi-final of T20 World Cup 2026 and the batter says he 'never felt doing something special.' The wicketkeeper-batter, who went out of the playing XI just before the World Cup began, rescued India with the innings of his life, shutting up his doubters for good. While he fell short of hundred by just three runs, he will live in the hearts of fans forever as some 97s are more special than a 100 - remember 2011 ODI World Cup final? Samson, who now holds the record for the highest score in a T20 World Cup chase for India, was also awarded Player of the Match for his performance.<h2>Sanju reacts to match-winning innigs vs WI in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Sanju started slowly but held one end firm as India lost a couple of wickets in the powerplay. He stayed calm and navigated the innings through middle overs as well before righfully hitting the winning shot. Speaking after the match, Sanju said: "I never felt that I would do something special like this but I was just focusing on my role. Just keeping one ball at a time and very grateful, I think this is one of the greatest days of my life."Talking about his approach, Samson revealed: I've seen the greatest people finish games and how they change their game according to the game [situation]... As soon as I wanted to go a bit higher, we were losing wickets, so I wanted to build a partnership and wanted to keep on focusing on my process."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/respect-the-name-sanju-samson-social-media-goes-bonkers-as-india-complete-record-chase-against-west-indies-to-qualify-for-t20-world-cup-semifinal-1772386776664">Social media goes bonkers as India complete record chase to qualify for semis</a>Speaking about his journey, which started in T20I back in 2015 as a 29-year-old, Samson acknowledged: "I've always had a very special journey with lots of ups and downs. I've kept on doubting myself, kept on thinking what if? Can I make it? But I kept on believing and thanks to the Almighty for actually blessing me today, so I'm very happy."<h2>What next for India</h2>With the win, India became the second team from Group 1 to qualify for the semis along with South Africa. The Suryakumar Yadav-led team will now face England in the second semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede stadium in Mumbai. South Africa, meanwhile, will face New Zealand in the first semi on Wednesday (Mar 4) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The winners of the two semis will play the final at the Narendra Modi Stadidum in Amhedabad on Sunday (Mar 8).

While he fell short of hundred by just three runs, he will live in the hearts of fans forever as some 97s are more special than a 100 - remember 2011 ODI World Cup final? He stayed calm and navigated the innings through chase as well before righfully hitting the winning shot.

Sanju Samson's record innings of 97 not out against West Indies on Sunday (Mar 1) a Eden Gardens in Kolkata put India in the semi-final of T20 World Cup 2026 and the batter says he 'never felt doing something special.' The wicketkeeper-batter, who went out of the playing XI just before the World Cup began, rescued India with the innings of his life, shutting up his doubters for good. While he fell short of hundred by just three runs, he will live in the hearts of fans forever as some 97s are more special than a 100 - remember 2011 ODI World Cup final? Samson, who now holds the record for the highest score in a T20 World Cup chase for India, was also awarded Player of the Match for his performance. Sanju reacts to match-winning innigs vs WI in T20 World Cup 2026 Sanju started slowly but held one end firm as India lost a couple of wickets in the powerplay. He stayed calm and navigated the innings through middle overs as well before righfully hitting the winning shot. Speaking after the match, Sanju said: "I never felt that I would do something special like this but I was just focusing on my role. Just keeping one ball at a time and very grateful, I think this is one of the greatest days of my life." Talking about his approach, Samson revealed: I've seen the greatest people finish games and how they change their game according to the game [situation]... As soon as I wanted to go a bit higher, we were losing wickets, so I wanted to build a partnership and wanted to keep on focusing on my process." Also Read - Social media goes bonkers as India complete record chase to qualify for semis Speaking about his journey, which started in T20I back in 2015 as a 29-year-old, Samson acknowledged: "I've always had a very special journey with lots of ups and downs. I've kept on doubting myself, kept on thinking what if? Can I make it? But I kept on believing and thanks to the Almighty for actually blessing me today, so I'm very happy." What next for India With the win, India became the second team from Group 1 to qualify for the semis along with South Africa. The Suryakumar Yadav-led team will now face England in the second semi-final on Thursday (Mar 5) at Wankhede stadium in Mumbai. South Africa, meanwhile, will face New Zealand in the first semi on Wednesday (Mar 4) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The winners of the two semis will play the final at the Narendra Modi Stadidum in Amhedabad on Sunday (Mar 8).

While he fell short of hundred by just three runs, he will live in the hearts of fans forever as some 97s are more special than a 100 - remember 2011 ODI World Cup final? He stayed calm and navigated the innings through chase as well before righfully hitting the winning shot.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Kept on doubting myself:' Sanju Samson reacts after giving Indian fans another memorable 97 in a World Cup

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan here is a list of five 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is. The list also features current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan with Ishan joining the list after T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

From Virat Kohli to Ishan Kishan, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is

From Yuvraj Singh to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs against Pakistan in T20 World Cup matches. This list also includes Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir

From Yuvraj Singh to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs against Pakistan in T20 World Cup matches. This list also includes Rishabh Pant, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs against Pakistan in T20 World Cup matches

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs against Pakistan. This list also includes Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir and Tilak Varma

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most T20I runs against Pakistan. This list also includes Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir and Tilak Varma

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most T20I runs against Pakistan

India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Suryakumar Yadav for the way he connects with his teammates, saying the captain has made things much easier for him in T20 cricket. Speaking during India’s T20 World Cup campaign, Gambhir spoke about the strong influence Suryakumar has had on the team through his leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Surya has made my life a lot easier in this format," Gambhir, who has had the most success in T20I cricket as coach, told Star Sports. &nbsp;&nbsp;Gambhir further said that Suryakumar’s batting skills and wide range of shots are already well known, but what truly stands out is his calm nature and how he handles players. According to him, Suryakumar keeps the dressing room relaxed and communicates clearly with everyone. This allows the coach to focus on other aspects of the game, knowing the team environment is in safe hands.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think he is a phenomenal leader of men – not by what he does on the field, not by the type of batter he is, not by the kind of shots that he plays. All that you can keep aside. But the way he relates to players, the way he talks to players, and how relaxed he is on the field," Gambhir said.&nbsp;"As a coach, you know you can think about other things because he is going to keep the atmosphere pretty calm. Surya the player, I can keep aside, but Surya the leader has ticked every box. It's a great thing when you have someone like him leading the country because his heart is in the right place, and he takes the right decisions for the team" he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-at-t20-world-cup-icc-rejects-pcb-3-demands-what-were-those-mohsin-naqvi-icc-pcb-meeting-feb-15-colombo-1770628737051">India vs Pakistan at T20 World Cup: ICC rejects PCB’s ‘3 demands’; what were those?</a>&nbsp;These comments came a day after Suryakumar played a crucial innings against the USA in Mumbai. India were struggling at 77 for six after 13 overs, but Suryakumar held his nerve and scored 84 runs from 49 balls. His knock helped India reach a competitive total of 161 for nine.&nbsp;The pitch at Wankhede was difficult for batting, as the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. Despite this, Suryakumar adjusted well, using his full range of shots and hit 10 fours and four sixes during his innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/winter-olympics-trump-slams-skier-hunter-hess-1770631881313">Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...'</a>&nbsp;Suryakumar also showed sharp thinking as captain during the match, as he trusted his main bowlers and avoided using part-time options. As a result, India managed to restrict the USA to 132 for eight and secured a win.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Suryakumar-led Indian team reached Delhi on Sunday ahead of their next Group A match against Namibia on Feb 12.

Since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav has led India in 44 matches, winning 35 of them.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Suryakumar Yadav for the way he connects with his teammates, saying the captain has made things much easier for him in T20 cricket. Speaking during India’s T20 World Cup campaign, Gambhir spoke about the strong influence Suryakumar has had on the team through his leadership. "Surya has made my life a lot easier in this format," Gambhir, who has had the most success in T20I cricket as coach, told Star Sports. Gambhir further said that Suryakumar’s batting skills and wide range of shots are already well known, but what truly stands out is his calm nature and how he handles players. According to him, Suryakumar keeps the dressing room relaxed and communicates clearly with everyone. This allows the coach to focus on other aspects of the game, knowing the team environment is in safe hands. "I think he is a phenomenal leader of men – not by what he does on the field, not by the type of batter he is, not by the kind of shots that he plays. All that you can keep aside. But the way he relates to players, the way he talks to players, and how relaxed he is on the field," Gambhir said. "As a coach, you know you can think about other things because he is going to keep the atmosphere pretty calm. Surya the player, I can keep aside, but Surya the leader has ticked every box. It's a great thing when you have someone like him leading the country because his heart is in the right place, and he takes the right decisions for the team" he added. Also Read - India vs Pakistan at T20 World Cup: ICC rejects PCB’s ‘3 demands’; what were those? These comments came a day after Suryakumar played a crucial innings against the USA in Mumbai. India were struggling at 77 for six after 13 overs, but Suryakumar held his nerve and scored 84 runs from 49 balls. His knock helped India reach a competitive total of 161 for nine. The pitch at Wankhede was difficult for batting, as the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. Despite this, Suryakumar adjusted well, using his full range of shots and hit 10 fours and four sixes during his innings. Also Read - Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...' Suryakumar also showed sharp thinking as captain during the match, as he trusted his main bowlers and avoided using part-time options. As a result, India managed to restrict the USA to 132 for eight and secured a win. The Suryakumar-led Indian team reached Delhi on Sunday ahead of their next Group A match against Namibia on Feb 12.

Since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav has led India in 44 matches, winning 35 of them.

‘Made my life a lot easier’: Gautam Gambhir on Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most fours in T20 World Cup history. This list also includes Gautam Gambhir, Suryakumar Yadav and Suresh Raina

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most fours in T20 World Cup history. This list also includes Gautam Gambhir, Suryakumar Yadav and Suresh Raina

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most fours in T20 World Cup history

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history. This list also includes Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history. This list also includes Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, on Tuesday (Feb 3), refused to give a reaction on Pakistan's boycott of India match on in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. India, entering the tournament as the defending champions, are in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Netherland, and Namibia. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture and failure to do so will see India getting full match points, given skipper Suryakumar Yadav is present at the toss. The boycott can potentially hurt Pakistan's chances to move to the next stage while making it easier for India to advance.<h2>Gambhir gives first reaction on Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>India coach Gambhir was spotted at Delhi airport on Tuesday (Feb 3) when the reporters asked him about his thoughts on Pakistan's boycott of India match in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The head coach, while thanking the reporters for their well-wished, refused to answer the Pakistan question. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Indian Cricket Team Head Coach Gautam Gambhir leaves for Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/6fBlclolVO">pic.twitter.com/6fBlclolVO</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2018681998835888267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. ICC replaced Bangladesh after the Asian country's refusal to travel to India for the World Cup matches, citing security threat.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-toss-becomes-crucial-dhoni-shares-what-worries-him-about-1770178247735">T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Toss becomes crucial': Dhoni on what worries him about India's title defence</a>Pakistan had supported Bangladesh's demand of shifting the matches outside India but ICC did not budge. After Bangladesh's replacement, Pakistan left their participation in limbo, confirming only on Sunday (Feb 1) that they will play the tournament but not India.India squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.Pakistan squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq.

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, on Tuesday (Feb 3), refused to give a reaction on Pakistan's boycott of India match on in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. India, entering the tournament as the defending champions, are in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Netherland, and Namibia. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture and failure to do so will see India getting full match points, given skipper Suryakumar Yadav is present at the toss. The boycott can potentially hurt Pakistan's chances to move to the next stage while making it easier for India to advance. Gambhir gives first reaction on Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026 India coach Gambhir was spotted at Delhi airport on Tuesday (Feb 3) when the reporters asked him about his thoughts on Pakistan's boycott of India match in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The head coach, while thanking the reporters for their well-wished, refused to answer the Pakistan question. Have a look at the video below:

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture.

T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Gambhir reacts to Pakistan boycotting India match on Feb 15

From MS Dhoni to Gautam Gambhir here is a look at five batters with most IPL runs without a hundred. The list also features popular names like Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik and Faf du Plessis. 

From MS Dhoni to Gautam Gambhir here is a look at five batters with most IPL runs without a hundred. The list also features popular names like Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik and Faf du Plessis.&nbsp;

Meet 5 batters with most IPL runs without a hundred ft MS Dhoni

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats.&nbsp;Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-how-much-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-earn-per-match-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-1766894788978">Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. &nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. &nbsp;"This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said.<h2>Gambhir’s future remains gloomy</h2>Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. &nbsp;A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats. Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach. Also read | Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. "This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said. Gambhir’s future remains gloomy Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

BCCI secretary denies ‘informal talks with Laxman’ reports, backs Gambhir as all-format coach

In the second T20I between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh, head coach Gautam Gambhir on Thursday (Dec 11) was visibly upset after pacer Arshdeep Singh bowled seven wides in a single over. The left-arm pacer needed 13 balls to finish the 11th over and looked completely out of rhythm. His attempted wide yorkers kept going wrong and commentators noted the rising tension in the Indian dugout. The crowd reacted loudly to the repeated extras and the pressure on Indian bowlers increased as Arshdeep struggled to control his line.<h2>Watch the video -&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">No matter the situation, abusing a youngster is never justified. Shame on Gautam Gambhir for his actions towards Arshdeep Singh <a href="https://t.co/05Ie1q4auy">pic.twitter.com/05Ie1q4auy</a>&mdash; 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐌𝐒𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐧™ (@AaravMsd_07) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaravMsd_07/status/1999125808259244081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Earlier, India won the toss and chose to bowl first. South Africa had a slow start with opener Reeza Hendricks falling for eight to Varun Chakaravarthy. After that, Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram (23) steadied the innings, but Markram was later dismissed by Chakaravarthy in the 11th over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-indian-vice-captain-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-after-wedding-call-off-1765452789672">I love..: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opens up after wedding call-off</a>&nbsp;At the time of writing, South Africa were 131/2 after 13 overs, with De Kock on 73 and Dewald Brevis on 6. For India, Varun Chakaravarthy was the only bowler to take two important wickets.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shahid-afridi-reignites-verbal-feud-with-gautam-gambhir-says-you-are-not-always-1765428799906">Shahid Afridi reignites verbal feud with Gautam Gambhir, says 'you are not always...'</a>&nbsp;Now, it will be interesting to see how Indian bowlers will try to stop South Africa’s strong batting lineup, while the Proteas will look to post a big total and put India under early pressure as they aim to level the five-match T20I series.

Now, it will be interesting to see how Indian bowlers will try to stop South Africa’s strong batting lineup, while the Proteas will look to post a big total and put India under early pressure as they aim to level the five-match T20I series.

In the second T20I between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh, head coach Gautam Gambhir on Thursday (Dec 11) was visibly upset after pacer Arshdeep Singh bowled seven wides in a single over. The left-arm pacer needed 13 balls to finish the 11th over and looked completely out of rhythm. His attempted wide yorkers kept going wrong and commentators noted the rising tension in the Indian dugout. The crowd reacted loudly to the repeated extras and the pressure on Indian bowlers increased as Arshdeep struggled to control his line. Watch the video -

Now, it will be interesting to see how Indian bowlers will try to stop South Africa’s strong batting lineup, while the Proteas will look to post a big total and put India under early pressure as they aim to level the five-match T20I series.

IND vs SA, 2nd T20I: Gautam Gambhir loses cool as Arshdeep Singh bowls seven wides in an over - WATCH

Former India batter Robin Uthappa thinks that head coach Gautam Gambhir's 'batting order is overrated in white-ball cricket' is holding for time-being only. Uthappa opined that as long as India continue to win matches, batting order won't matter but the idea can circle back and haunt both Gambhir and India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav.“If this goes south, it’ll backfire on both Surya and Gautam Gambhir. And people are anyway gunning for his (Gambhir) head," said Uthappa on his YouTube channel.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-indian-vice-captain-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-after-wedding-call-off-1765452789672">I love..: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opens up after wedding call-off</a>As for Surya, Uthappa added: "Today it’s not affecting him because India is winning matches. He’s one of the most successful Indian captain right now with an 85 win percentage. But if that drops over the next nine games, then it starts impacting his batting and it starts impacting how he leads on the field as well."India are currently 1-0 up in the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa. They also have a five-T20I series against New Zealand at home before the next year's T20 World Cup which they enter as the defending champions.With nine matches left ahead of the marquee tournament which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.In the first T20I against South Africa, India won on the back of all-round performance by Hardik Pandya who was returning from a injury lay-off. He scored an unbeaten 50 and took a wicket as well, subsequently named Player for the Match.While Pandya's return is boost for India, the biggest question they face is wicketkeeper-batter. Rishabh Pant played in the T20 World Cup 2024 but has not played much T20Is after that. The current competition is between Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson and the next nine matches to be played by India could very decided the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for them.

With nine matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.

Former India batter Robin Uthappa thinks that head coach Gautam Gambhir's 'batting order is overrated in white-ball cricket' is holding for time-being only. Uthappa opined that as long as India continue to win matches, batting order won't matter but the idea can circle back and haunt both Gambhir and India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav. “If this goes south, it’ll backfire on both Surya and Gautam Gambhir. And people are anyway gunning for his (Gambhir) head," said Uthappa on his YouTube channel. Also Read - I love..: Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana opens up after wedding call-off As for Surya, Uthappa added: "Today it’s not affecting him because India is winning matches. He’s one of the most successful Indian captain right now with an 85 win percentage. But if that drops over the next nine games, then it starts impacting his batting and it starts impacting how he leads on the field as well." India are currently 1-0 up in the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa. They also have a five-T20I series against New Zealand at home before the next year's T20 World Cup which they enter as the defending champions. With nine matches left ahead of the marquee tournament which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going. In the first T20I against South Africa, India won on the back of all-round performance by Hardik Pandya who was returning from a injury lay-off. He scored an unbeaten 50 and took a wicket as well, subsequently named Player for the Match. While Pandya's return is boost for India, the biggest question they face is wicketkeeper-batter. Rishabh Pant played in the T20 World Cup 2024 but has not played much T20Is after that. The current competition is between Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson and the next nine matches to be played by India could very decided the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for them.

With nine matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 which India is co-hosting along with Sri Lanka, Gambhir and Surya would be hoping to not only finalize but also get the players going.

Uthappa says Gambhir's batting order remark will 'backfire' if India's winning run ends in T20Is

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has been the centre of attraction in recent weeks as he continues to be in the spotlight after India’s Test series defeat against South Africa. While the pressure is on the coach, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has reignited a feud with Gambhir, questioning his calls. Afridi reckons Gambhir has not walked the talk and is not always right with the decisions he has made.<h2>Afridi reignites feud with Gambhir</h2>“The way Gautam started his stint, it looked like he thought whatever he said was right. But after some time, it is proven that you are not always right,” Afridi said.&nbsp;Afridi also recalled an incident from 2007 when he and Gambhir came head-to-head for a heated argument, sparking a feud during their playing days.&nbsp;“I remember the run-in with Gambhir during the 2007 Asia Cup, when he completed his single while running straight into me. The umpires had to finish it off, or I would have. Clearly, we had a frank bilateral discussion about each other’s female relative,” he wrote.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;India’s defeat to South Africa in the Guwahati Test last month was their 10th under the Delhi gaffer, having lost more than 50 per cent of the matches. Having taken charge of 19 Test matches for India, Gambhir has helped India win seven and draw two. However, it is the number of defeats that make his position more vulnerable.&nbsp;His 10 defeats in 19 matches, along with series defeats against New Zealand, Australia and now South Africa, have raised question marks on his performance as coach. Although India gave a good account of themselves in the series against England, they only managed a 2-2 draw.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Last year’s defeat to New Zealand was also India’s first on home turf in 12 years. Interestingly, before the South Africa defeat, India had lost only two Test series on home turf in 24 outings, but have now lost two in 12 months and two in the last three outings at home.&nbsp;For now, the pressure is off on Gambhir as he helped India win the ODI series against South Africa, as the Men in Blue gave a good account of themselves. India won the series 2-1 with Virat Kohli in sparkling form.

India’s defeat to South Africa in the Guwahati Test last month was their 10th under the Gautam Gambhir, having lost more than 50 per cent of the matches

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has been the centre of attraction in recent weeks as he continues to be in the spotlight after India’s Test series defeat against South Africa. While the pressure is on the coach, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has reignited a feud with Gambhir, questioning his calls. Afridi reckons Gambhir has not walked the talk and is not always right with the decisions he has made. Afridi reignites feud with Gambhir “The way Gautam started his stint, it looked like he thought whatever he said was right. But after some time, it is proven that you are not always right,” Afridi said. Afridi also recalled an incident from 2007 when he and Gambhir came head-to-head for a heated argument, sparking a feud during their playing days. “I remember the run-in with Gambhir during the 2007 Asia Cup, when he completed his single while running straight into me. The umpires had to finish it off, or I would have. Clearly, we had a frank bilateral discussion about each other’s female relative,” he wrote. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes India’s defeat to South Africa in the Guwahati Test last month was their 10th under the Delhi gaffer, having lost more than 50 per cent of the matches. Having taken charge of 19 Test matches for India, Gambhir has helped India win seven and draw two. However, it is the number of defeats that make his position more vulnerable. His 10 defeats in 19 matches, along with series defeats against New Zealand, Australia and now South Africa, have raised question marks on his performance as coach. Although India gave a good account of themselves in the series against England, they only managed a 2-2 draw. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Last year’s defeat to New Zealand was also India’s first on home turf in 12 years. Interestingly, before the South Africa defeat, India had lost only two Test series on home turf in 24 outings, but have now lost two in 12 months and two in the last three outings at home. For now, the pressure is off on Gambhir as he helped India win the ODI series against South Africa, as the Men in Blue gave a good account of themselves. India won the series 2-1 with Virat Kohli in sparkling form.

India’s defeat to South Africa in the Guwahati Test last month was their 10th under the Gautam Gambhir, having lost more than 50 per cent of the matches

Shahid Afridi reignites verbal feud with Gautam Gambhir, says 'you are not always...'

From MS Dhoni to Gautam Gambhir, 5 batters with most IPL runs without a hundred

Team India won the third and the deciding ODI against South Africa in Vizag on Saturday (Dec 6) by nine wickets, completing a series win. Although the star-studded top three, and underfire Prasidh Krishna, who picked up four wickets, must be credited for the win, head coach Gautam Gambhir also deserves some, amid criticism over his coaching role. Silently sulking at all shots aimed at him till now, Gambhir reverted, ranting at the media and an unnamed IPL team owner for trying to put him down following the team's horrid Test results earlier.&nbsp;India’s white-ball cricket prospered significantly under Gambhir’s leadership, winning two multi-team events, including the ICC Champions Trophy; however, the Test results haven’t been in either’s favour. For the first time in India's Test history, they have been whitewashed twice at home, both under Gautam's tenure, recently against South Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-jokes-about-toss-luck-as-india-seal-odi-series-2-1-in-visakhapatnam-1765042768821">KL Rahul jokes about toss luck as India seal ODI series 2-1 in Visakhapatnam</a> &nbsp;Following the shocking series loss, Gambhir’s position came under scrutiny, with everyone, including the media and top people in the cricket circuit, beginning to question his role and responsibility for such results. Although he answered all with an ODI series win against the Proteas, Gautam took a jibe at an IPL owner, whom he didn’t name, asking him to stay in his domain. &nbsp;The concerned person here could be Delhi Capitals’ co-owner Parth Jindal, who suggested a red-ball specialist to replace Gambhir as the Test coach following the series loss against South Africa, who wrote on his X handle, “Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Don’t remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket @BCCI.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Don’t remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!!This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for…&mdash; Parth Jindal (@ParthJindal11) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParthJindal11/status/1993614055702180092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“There were a few things said by people who didn’t have any connection to cricket. One IPL owner also wrote about split coaching. This is very surprising. It’s important for people to stay in their domain. We don’t go into their domain. So, they have no right to interfere in what we do," Gambhir replied to his critics.<h3>Gambhir attacks media &nbsp;</h3>Not only an IPL team owner but Gambhir also took a scathing attack on the media, saying none of the media houses pointed out how the Indian Team was without their Test captain and batting mainstay (Shubman Gill), who got injured during the Kolkata Test and missed out on all cricket that followed. &nbsp;“A lot has been said, no doubt. Yes, results haven’t gone our way. But, the most shocking part about all this is not one media house, not one journalist mentioned that the first Test we played, we were without our captain, who didn’t bat in both innings. The difference was 30 runs. I don’t come and give excuses in the press conference, that doesn’t mean that you all won’t bring out the facts to the world. &nbsp;“When you are going through transition, and when you lose your captain, who is also an in-form batter, who has scored around 1000 runs in the last six Test matches. When you are facing a quality opposition, and you lose your captain midway through a Test, it becomes difficult. The most surprising part was no one discussed this. All that was discussed was about the pitch, I don’t know what else people said,” Gambhir said.&nbsp;Team India's next assignment is the five-match T20I series against South Africa starting Tuesday (Dec 9) in Cuttack.

For the first time in India's Test history, they have been whitewashed twice at home, both under Gautam's tenure, recently against South Africa. 

Team India won the third and the deciding ODI against South Africa in Vizag on Saturday (Dec 6) by nine wickets, completing a series win. Although the star-studded top three, and underfire Prasidh Krishna, who picked up four wickets, must be credited for the win, head coach Gautam Gambhir also deserves some, amid criticism over his coaching role. Silently sulking at all shots aimed at him till now, Gambhir reverted, ranting at the media and an unnamed IPL team owner for trying to put him down following the team's horrid Test results earlier. India’s white-ball cricket prospered significantly under Gambhir’s leadership, winning two multi-team events, including the ICC Champions Trophy; however, the Test results haven’t been in either’s favour. For the first time in India's Test history, they have been whitewashed twice at home, both under Gautam's tenure, recently against South Africa. Also read | KL Rahul jokes about toss luck as India seal ODI series 2-1 in Visakhapatnam Following the shocking series loss, Gambhir’s position came under scrutiny, with everyone, including the media and top people in the cricket circuit, beginning to question his role and responsibility for such results. Although he answered all with an ODI series win against the Proteas, Gautam took a jibe at an IPL owner, whom he didn’t name, asking him to stay in his domain. The concerned person here could be Delhi Capitals’ co-owner Parth Jindal, who suggested a red-ball specialist to replace Gambhir as the Test coach following the series loss against South Africa, who wrote on his X handle, “Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Don’t remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket @BCCI.”

For the first time in India's Test history, they have been whitewashed twice at home, both under Gautam's tenure, recently against South Africa.&nbsp;

Gautam Gambhir blasts IPL team owner, media in rant over coaching role criticism

Virat Kohli now plays only in one format - One Day International or 50-over cricket - and he has been scoring centuries at will in the format. In the five ODI innings, he has played since retiring from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, Kohli has scored one fifty and two hundreds after two initial ducks. The veteran batter has 311 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 78 - the most for India - and yet he's not given a confirmation about being in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.<h2>What more Kohli needs to do?</h2>Kohli, after retiring from Test, scored his first ODI hundred on November 30. He scored another one two days later on December 3 - becoming the only batter in the history of the format to score back-to-back tons 11 times. He already has most ODI hundreds at 53 and the form he's currently in, the number only looks to grow.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andre-russell-is-ipl-s-first-power-coach-what-will-he-do-in-this-role-1764845193032">Andre Russell is IPL's first POWER COACH - What will he do in this role</a>The 37-year-old batter has also pledged to play in domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy to keep himself match-fit given the next 50-over World Cup still being nearly two years away.<h2>What is BCCI's stance?</h2>Despite being in great form and committing to play domestic cricket, the team management and head coach Gautam Gambhir have called the potential participation in the quadrennial event a thing of future. The head coach has repeatedly said that the fans should take it one day and one match at a time just like them on the topic of Kohli playing the upcoming ODI World Cup.Kohli, despite fulfilling the team management's criteria of being in form and playing domestic cricket, does not seem to have the full backing to play the ODI World Cup 2027. It remains to be seen what else is expected out of player like Kohli to put him in plans to play the next ODI World Cup.

The 37-year-old batter has also pledged to play in domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy to keep himself match-fit given the next 50-over World Cup still being nearly two years away.

Virat Kohli now plays only in one format - One Day International or 50-over cricket - and he has been scoring centuries at will in the format. In the five ODI innings, he has played since retiring from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, Kohli has scored one fifty and two hundreds after two initial ducks. The veteran batter has 311 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 78 - the most for India - and yet he's not given a confirmation about being in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. What more Kohli needs to do? Kohli, after retiring from Test, scored his first ODI hundred on November 30. He scored another one two days later on December 3 - becoming the only batter in the history of the format to score back-to-back tons 11 times. He already has most ODI hundreds at 53 and the form he's currently in, the number only looks to grow. Also Read - Andre Russell is IPL's first POWER COACH - What will he do in this role The 37-year-old batter has also pledged to play in domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy to keep himself match-fit given the next 50-over World Cup still being nearly two years away. What is BCCI's stance? Despite being in great form and committing to play domestic cricket, the team management and head coach Gautam Gambhir have called the potential participation in the quadrennial event a thing of future. The head coach has repeatedly said that the fans should take it one day and one match at a time just like them on the topic of Kohli playing the upcoming ODI World Cup. Kohli, despite fulfilling the team management's criteria of being in form and playing domestic cricket, does not seem to have the full backing to play the ODI World Cup 2027. It remains to be seen what else is expected out of player like Kohli to put him in plans to play the next ODI World Cup.

The 37-year-old batter has also pledged to play in domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy to keep himself match-fit given the next 50-over World Cup still being nearly two years away.

Back-to-back tons and ready to play domestic cricket: What more Kohli needs to do to be in India's plans for 2027 ODI World Cup?

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T20 WC 2026 | 'Kept on doubting myself:' Samson reacts after memorable 97 vs WI

Meet 5 batters with highest individual scores in India-Pakistan T20Is ft Ishan

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs against Pakistan in T20 WC matches

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most T20I runs against Pakistan

‘Made my life a lot easier’: Gautam Gambhir on Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most fours in T20 World Cup history

Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history

T20 WC 2026 | WATCH - Gambhir reacts to Pak boycotting India match on Feb 15

Meet 5 batters with most IPL runs without a hundred ft MS Dhoni

BCCI secretary denies ‘informal talks with Laxman’ reports, backs Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir loses cool as Arshdeep Singh bowls seven wides in an over - WATCH