Abhishek Sharma entered the T20 World Cup as the ranked number one batter in the format, and although he retained his spot after India's triumphant campaign, what happened in between did put him under pressure. Abhishek got off to the worst possible start to his maiden ICC event, securing three successive ducks in his first three matches. And if his poor shot selections or lapse in concentration weren’t enough, suffering food poisoning midway through the first half made things worse for him. Who came to his rescue? His head coach Gautam Gambhir, team captain Suryakumar Yadav and senior teammate Hardik Pandya.&nbsp;Fortunately, Abhishek’s poor run at the top didn’t hurt India much, as they won most of their matches, barring the one against South Africa in Super 8; however, he still needed some words of wisdom to maintain his confidence and hunger for runs. While he must have received plenty on the technical front, what helped him maintain his mind’s sanity was the installation of his social media accounts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-sharma-is-brave-but-his-early-stardom-invited-jealousy-indian-team-sanju-samson-t20-world-cup-2026-india-vs-new-zealand-ahmedabad-1773558463003">‘Abhishek is brave, but his early stardom invited jealousy’: Sanju Samson</a> &nbsp;Abhishek explains how it did wonders for him. &nbsp;“Slowly, you get used to it (criticism and emotional breakdown amid poor form). But it does feel bad (when there is criticism). That is going to happen in India because people have a lot of expectations from you. After I scored three ducks, Surya, GG sir and Hardik Pandya came to me and said, ‘Phone pakad, social media hata abhi ke abhi [take your phone and uninstall social media right now]'," Abhishek revealed during a chat on India Today enclave.&nbsp; &nbsp;“That was the first thing I did after my second zero. That actually helped me a bit. I was getting a lot of suggestions and comments from people.&nbsp;That’s how a cricketer’s life is. You have to listen, and you will be criticised. All you can do is listen and ignore. That is because they have a lot of expectations from you. Sometimes you deliver, and sometimes you don’t. I expected this,” he continued. &nbsp;Although he scored his first runs against South Africa, Abhishek slowly roared back to form against Zimbabwe, slamming his first ICC event fifty. Having struggled against the West Indies and England during the fag end, Abhishek kept his best for the last against New Zealand in the final, where he hit an 18-ball fifty to help India start brilliantly. &nbsp;India eventually won the game and defended their T20 crown.&nbsp;

"Uninstall it right now!" Abhishek Sharma reveals the blunt advice from Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav that saved his T20 World Cup after three straight ducks. From social media blackout to an 18-ball fifty in the final—read his incredible redemption story.

Abhishek Sharma entered the T20 World Cup as the ranked number one batter in the format, and although he retained his spot after India's triumphant campaign, what happened in between did put him under pressure. Abhishek got off to the worst possible start to his maiden ICC event, securing three successive ducks in his first three matches. And if his poor shot selections or lapse in concentration weren’t enough, suffering food poisoning midway through the first half made things worse for him. Who came to his rescue? His head coach Gautam Gambhir, team captain Suryakumar Yadav and senior teammate Hardik Pandya. Fortunately, Abhishek’s poor run at the top didn’t hurt India much, as they won most of their matches, barring the one against South Africa in Super 8; however, he still needed some words of wisdom to maintain his confidence and hunger for runs. While he must have received plenty on the technical front, what helped him maintain his mind’s sanity was the installation of his social media accounts. Also read | ‘Abhishek is brave, but his early stardom invited jealousy’: Sanju Samson Abhishek explains how it did wonders for him. “Slowly, you get used to it (criticism and emotional breakdown amid poor form). But it does feel bad (when there is criticism). That is going to happen in India because people have a lot of expectations from you. After I scored three ducks, Surya, GG sir and Hardik Pandya came to me and said, ‘Phone pakad, social media hata abhi ke abhi [take your phone and uninstall social media right now]'," Abhishek revealed during a chat on India Today enclave. “That was the first thing I did after my second zero. That actually helped me a bit. I was getting a lot of suggestions and comments from people. That’s how a cricketer’s life is. You have to listen, and you will be criticised. All you can do is listen and ignore. That is because they have a lot of expectations from you. Sometimes you deliver, and sometimes you don’t. I expected this,” he continued. Although he scored his first runs against South Africa, Abhishek slowly roared back to form against Zimbabwe, slamming his first ICC event fifty. Having struggled against the West Indies and England during the fag end, Abhishek kept his best for the last against New Zealand in the final, where he hit an 18-ball fifty to help India start brilliantly. India eventually won the game and defended their T20 crown.

"Uninstall it right now!" Abhishek Sharma reveals the blunt advice from Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav that saved his T20 World Cup after three straight ducks. From social media blackout to an 18-ball fifty in the final—read his incredible redemption story.

‘Uninstalled social media after my second zero’: Abhishek on Gambhir-Surya advice that saved his T20 WC

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir came under the scanner following his team’s shocking home Test series whitewash to South Africa, the second under his tenure, and first since the New Zealand series late last year. Amid his success rate in white ball cricket, including two multi-team event wins this year (Champions Trophy and Asia Cup), Gautam became the internet’s hot topic, with the fans and even experts tearing into his failed strategy as a red-ball coach. Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar threw his weight behind the under-fire coach, saying his role is to prepare the team, but it’s the players who have to deliver out in the middle.&nbsp;Gautam, however, also faced flak for his post-match remarks, wherein he reminded everyone how the Men in Blue tasted enormous success in white-ball cricket (when asked about his team’s result in Tests), with the social media users bashing him for comparing the two formats.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-tags-india-as-one-of-poorest-spin-playing-nations-after-series-loss-vs-sa-1764226334925">Ravi Ashwin tags India as one of 'poorest spin-playing nations' after series loss vs SA</a> &nbsp;“He's a coach. The coach can prepare a team. The coach can tell, you know, a guy with his experience. But it's out there in the middle that the players have to deliver. Now, to those who are asking, you know, for him to be held accountable, my question, counter-question is: what did you do when India won the Champions Trophy under him? What did you do when India won the Asia Cup under him?" Gavaskar said in a chat with India Today. &nbsp;“Did you say then—you're asking for a sacking now—did you say then that he should be given an extended contract, a contract for life for one day cricket and for T20 cricket? You didn't say that. It's only when a team doesn't do well you look at the coach,” he continued.<h3>Gavaskar on Gambhir’s future</h3>Amid rumours of uncertainty around his role as an all-format coach, Gavaskar backed Gautam in his position, saying the coach (in charge) must not be questioned during losses if he isn’t credited during the victories. &nbsp;“Not necessarily. You have coaches, for example, Brendan McCullum is a coach for all three formats for England. A lot of countries have a coach who is there for all formats. But we tend to only look and point a finger at somebody when the team has lost. &nbsp;“You're not prepared to give him credit. If you're not prepared to give him credit for the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup win, then please tell me why you want to blame him for the team out there on that 22-yard, not doing well. Why are you blaming him?” Gavaskar concluded.

Team India has lost two home Test series under Gautam Gambhir's tenure as the head coach. 

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir came under the scanner following his team’s shocking home Test series whitewash to South Africa, the second under his tenure, and first since the New Zealand series late last year. Amid his success rate in white ball cricket, including two multi-team event wins this year (Champions Trophy and Asia Cup), Gautam became the internet’s hot topic, with the fans and even experts tearing into his failed strategy as a red-ball coach. Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar threw his weight behind the under-fire coach, saying his role is to prepare the team, but it’s the players who have to deliver out in the middle. Gautam, however, also faced flak for his post-match remarks, wherein he reminded everyone how the Men in Blue tasted enormous success in white-ball cricket (when asked about his team’s result in Tests), with the social media users bashing him for comparing the two formats. Also read | Ravi Ashwin tags India as one of 'poorest spin-playing nations' after series loss vs SA “He's a coach. The coach can prepare a team. The coach can tell, you know, a guy with his experience. But it's out there in the middle that the players have to deliver. Now, to those who are asking, you know, for him to be held accountable, my question, counter-question is: what did you do when India won the Champions Trophy under him? What did you do when India won the Asia Cup under him?" Gavaskar said in a chat with India Today. “Did you say then—you're asking for a sacking now—did you say then that he should be given an extended contract, a contract for life for one day cricket and for T20 cricket? You didn't say that. It's only when a team doesn't do well you look at the coach,” he continued. Gavaskar on Gambhir’s future Amid rumours of uncertainty around his role as an all-format coach, Gavaskar backed Gautam in his position, saying the coach (in charge) must not be questioned during losses if he isn’t credited during the victories. “Not necessarily. You have coaches, for example, Brendan McCullum is a coach for all three formats for England. A lot of countries have a coach who is there for all formats. But we tend to only look and point a finger at somebody when the team has lost. “You're not prepared to give him credit. If you're not prepared to give him credit for the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup win, then please tell me why you want to blame him for the team out there on that 22-yard, not doing well. Why are you blaming him?” Gavaskar concluded.

Team India has lost two home Test series under Gautam Gambhir's tenure as the head coach.&nbsp;

‘The coach can prepare the team but…’ Gavaskar backs under fire Gambhir after SA whitewash

Gautam Gambhir says that any decision on his future as India head coach lies with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The coach made the comments after India's shocking 408-run loss in second Test against South Africa on Wednesday (Nov 25). With the win, South Africa also completed the 2-0 series whitewash of India - second such instance for Gambhir's team after losing 0-3 to New Zealand last year, also at home. Gambhir's tactics, record, and selections calls have been under scrutiny for some time but he has refused to quit.<h2>Gambhir puts onus of job's future on BCCI</h2>"It is up to the BCCI to decide my future," Gambhir said while speaking to media after the loss against South Africa in Guwahati. "But I am the same guy who got you results in England and was coach for Champions Trophy," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stand-in-skipper-rishabh-pant-says-india-s-biggest-test-loss-is-little-disappointing-1764144399578">Stand-in skipper Rishabh Pant says India's biggest Test loss is 'little disappointing'</a>Under Gambhir, India have beaten only Bangladesh and West Indies, both at home, while losing to New Zealand (home), South Africa (home), Australia (away), and drawing against England (away).There are some tough questions to answer for India in red-ball cricket which now goes on a hold for nearly 9-10 months before the next series starts.<h2>Who to blame - pitch or players?</h2>After asking for a spin-friendly pitch in Kolkata and losing by 30 runs, India opted for more traditional pitch at their newest Test venue in Guwahati. The result, however, did not change as India batters again failed to get going, this time without demons on the pitch. India's 201 in the first innings of the second Test was their highest team total in the series - showcasing inability of the batters to play in home conditions. Since New Zealand came to India last year, India now have lost five of seven home Tests with two wins coming against a weakened West Indies before the SA series.

Under Gambhir, India have beaten only Bangladesh and West Indies, both at home, while losing to New Zealand (home), South Africa (home), Australia (away), and drawing against England (away).

Gautam Gambhir says that any decision on his future as India head coach lies with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The coach made the comments after India's shocking 408-run loss in second Test against South Africa on Wednesday (Nov 25). With the win, South Africa also completed the 2-0 series whitewash of India - second such instance for Gambhir's team after losing 0-3 to New Zealand last year, also at home. Gambhir's tactics, record, and selections calls have been under scrutiny for some time but he has refused to quit. Gambhir puts onus of job's future on BCCI "It is up to the BCCI to decide my future," Gambhir said while speaking to media after the loss against South Africa in Guwahati. "But I am the same guy who got you results in England and was coach for Champions Trophy," he added. Also Read - Stand-in skipper Rishabh Pant says India's biggest Test loss is 'little disappointing' Under Gambhir, India have beaten only Bangladesh and West Indies, both at home, while losing to New Zealand (home), South Africa (home), Australia (away), and drawing against England (away). There are some tough questions to answer for India in red-ball cricket which now goes on a hold for nearly 9-10 months before the next series starts. Who to blame - pitch or players? After asking for a spin-friendly pitch in Kolkata and losing by 30 runs, India opted for more traditional pitch at their newest Test venue in Guwahati. The result, however, did not change as India batters again failed to get going, this time without demons on the pitch. India's 201 in the first innings of the second Test was their highest team total in the series - showcasing inability of the batters to play in home conditions. Since New Zealand came to India last year, India now have lost five of seven home Tests with two wins coming against a weakened West Indies before the SA series.

Under Gambhir, India have beaten only Bangladesh and West Indies, both at home, while losing to New Zealand (home), South Africa (home), Australia (away), and drawing against England (away).

India head coach Gambhir says 'BCCI to decide my future' after another home Test series loss

India are staring at second clean sweep in a home Test series in little more than an year after being left with eight wickets for the final day of the second Test against South Africa in chase of 549. After South Africa declared their innings at 260/5, they took out both Indian openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as India finished day 4 (Nov 25) at 27/2, needing another 522 runs to win the match and level the series. Sai Sudharsan (2) was at the crease alongwith nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav (4).<h2>India looking at another series clean sweep</h2>With nearly an hour left to play before the stumps, India openers Rahul and Jaiswal started cautiously before Marco Jansen, who took 6/48 in the first innings, sent back Jaiswal. Protea off-spinner Simon Harmer then produced a special delivery to clean bowled Rahul as India lost both the openers in space of four runs and 19 balls. Kuldeep, who played 134 balls for his 19 runs in the first innings, was promoted up the order in order to protect the batters for final day. The spinner did not disappoint and played 22 plays for his unbeaten four runs at the close of play along with Sudharsan who had also played 25 balls so far. India would have to put up a clinical performance on day 5 even for a draw let alone a win in the Test.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-ashwin-left-dejected-by-india-s-body-language-in-guwahati-test-1764063560721">IND vs SA: Ashwin left dejected by India's 'body language' in Guwahati Test</a><h2>South Africa batters flatten India again</h2>South Africa batters again showed temperament and technique required to bat in Indian pitches unlike the Indian counterparts in the ongoing series. India had to wait for 59 runs before the Ravindra Jadeja took the first wicket. South Africa did lose two more wickets quickly after that and ended the first session at 107/3 with lead nearing 400. A 101-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi (49) followed by 82-run stand between Stubbs (94) and Wiaan Mulder (35 not out) took South Africa to 260/5 in their second innings before declaration.

<h2>South Africa batters flatten India again</h2>South Africa batters again showed temperament and technique required to bat in Indian pitches unlike the Indian counterparts in the ongoing series. India had to wait for 59 runs before the Ravindra Jadeja took the first wicket. South Africa did lose two more wickets quickly after that and ended the first session at 107/3 with lead nearing 400. A 101-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi (49) followed by 82-run stand between Stubbs (94) and Wiaan Mulder (35 not out) took South Africa to 260/5 in their second innings before declaration.

After South Africa declared their innings at 260/5, they took out both Indian openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as India finished day 4 (Nov 25) at 27/2, needing another 522 runs to win the match and level the series.

India are staring at second clean sweep in a home Test series in little more than an year after being left with eight wickets for the final day of the second Test against South Africa in chase of 549. After South Africa declared their innings at 260/5, they took out both Indian openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as India finished day 4 (Nov 25) at 27/2, needing another 522 runs to win the match and level the series. Sai Sudharsan (2) was at the crease alongwith nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav (4). India looking at another series clean sweep With nearly an hour left to play before the stumps, India openers Rahul and Jaiswal started cautiously before Marco Jansen, who took 6/48 in the first innings, sent back Jaiswal. Protea off-spinner Simon Harmer then produced a special delivery to clean bowled Rahul as India lost both the openers in space of four runs and 19 balls. Kuldeep, who played 134 balls for his 19 runs in the first innings, was promoted up the order in order to protect the batters for final day. The spinner did not disappoint and played 22 plays for his unbeaten four runs at the close of play along with Sudharsan who had also played 25 balls so far. India would have to put up a clinical performance on day 5 even for a draw let alone a win in the Test. Also Read - IND vs SA: Ashwin left dejected by India's 'body language' in Guwahati Test South Africa batters flatten India again South Africa batters again showed temperament and technique required to bat in Indian pitches unlike the Indian counterparts in the ongoing series. India had to wait for 59 runs before the Ravindra Jadeja took the first wicket. South Africa did lose two more wickets quickly after that and ended the first session at 107/3 with lead nearing 400. A 101-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi (49) followed by 82-run stand between Stubbs (94) and Wiaan Mulder (35 not out) took South Africa to 260/5 in their second innings before declaration.

After South Africa declared their innings at 260/5, they took out both Indian openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as India finished day 4 (Nov 25) at 27/2, needing another 522 runs to win the match and level the series.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: India stare at series defeat after being set up 549-run target in Guwahati

The loss in first Test against South Africa was India's fourth home loss in six matches in last one year. In the period from October 2024 India have played three Tests against New Zealand, two against West Indies and one against the Proteas - losing all but against West Indies. The pattern is worrying as three of those four losses, against the Kiwis and SA, have come on spinning tracks - something which is considered the strength of Indian and other subcontinent players. While India coach Gautam Gambhir said the onus was with the players, the selection calls made by the team management are a bit perplexing.<h2>Was playing six bowling options a smart decision?</h2>After the loss, Gambhir said that they had asked for the pitch which they got - turning from day 1. The logic behind asking such a pitch was taking toss out of the context. India, however, lost the toss in each of their four Test losses at home since October 2024, which meant they batted fourth on a turning and unevenly bouncing pitch.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-former-pacer-venkatesh-prasad-calls-out-over-tactical-thinking-for-loss-1763357674777">IND vs SA, 1st Test: Former pacer Venkatesh Prasad calls out 'over-tactical thinking' for loss</a>The question which arises now is - if India knew the pitch would turn from day 1, and they selected four spinners in playing XI - Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel - could they have gone with one pacer instead of both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.Also, if they wanted six bowling options, could they have included Nitish Kumar Reddy over Siraj to give them a few overs of medium-pace along with Bumrah alongside a good batting option?<h2>What India's playing XI in Kolkata meant?</h2>Playing three spin all-rounders along with two pacers meant India had to sacrifice a specialist batter - in this case Sai Sudharsan, who had scored 87 &amp; 39 in his last Test outing - against West Indies in Delhi. The lack of a specialist batter, along with loss of Shubman Gill to injury mid-match, didn't help India's cause. They may have won the game if Gill could bat, but that still doesn't explain why they needed four spinners along with two outright pacers on a pitch which they knew would turn from day 1.&nbsp;

While India coach Gautam Gambhir said the onus was with the players, the selection calls made by the team management are a bit perplexing. They may have won the game if Gill could bat, but that still doesn't explain why they needed four spinners along with two outright pacers.

The loss in first Test against South Africa was India's fourth home loss in six matches in last one year. In the period from October 2024 India have played three Tests against New Zealand, two against West Indies and one against the Proteas - losing all but against West Indies. The pattern is worrying as three of those four losses, against the Kiwis and SA, have come on spinning tracks - something which is considered the strength of Indian and other subcontinent players. While India coach Gautam Gambhir said the onus was with the players, the selection calls made by the team management are a bit perplexing. Was playing six bowling options a smart decision? After the loss, Gambhir said that they had asked for the pitch which they got - turning from day 1. The logic behind asking such a pitch was taking toss out of the context. India, however, lost the toss in each of their four Test losses at home since October 2024, which meant they batted fourth on a turning and unevenly bouncing pitch. Also Read - IND vs SA, 1st Test: Former pacer Venkatesh Prasad calls out 'over-tactical thinking' for loss The question which arises now is - if India knew the pitch would turn from day 1, and they selected four spinners in playing XI - Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel - could they have gone with one pacer instead of both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Also, if they wanted six bowling options, could they have included Nitish Kumar Reddy over Siraj to give them a few overs of medium-pace along with Bumrah alongside a good batting option? What India's playing XI in Kolkata meant? Playing three spin all-rounders along with two pacers meant India had to sacrifice a specialist batter - in this case Sai Sudharsan, who had scored 87 & 39 in his last Test outing - against West Indies in Delhi. The lack of a specialist batter, along with loss of Shubman Gill to injury mid-match, didn't help India's cause. They may have won the game if Gill could bat, but that still doesn't explain why they needed four spinners along with two outright pacers on a pitch which they knew would turn from day 1.

While India coach Gautam Gambhir said the onus was with the players, the selection calls made by the team management are a bit perplexing. They may have won the game if Gill could bat, but that still doesn't explain why they needed four spinners along with two outright pacers.

IND vs SA, 1st Test: What went wrong for India in Kolkata - pitch or selection?

India head coach Gautam Gambhir says there's still work to do before the team reaches at a certain level to compete in the upcoming T20 World Cup. India will be entering the tournament as defending champions, having won the tournament in 2024 under Rohit Sharma. Since the win, Rohit along with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja have retired from the format for India. India appointed Suryakumar Yadav as the new skipper under whom India won the Asia Cup 2025 - the only multi-team tournament they played. Most recently, India won the five-match T20I series against Australia 2-1 away from home.<h2>Gambhir on India's T20 World Cup preps</h2>"It has been a very transparent dressing room, it has been a very honest dressing room and that is how we want this dressing room to be. I think we still aren't where we want to be come the T20 World Cup," Gambhir said in a clip shared by BCCI.TV.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-raina-wants-csk-to-retain-jadeja-but-release-these-three-players-1762763574233">IPL 2026: Raina wants CSK to retain Jadeja but release THESE three players</a>The head coach also touched upon the important of fitness and said: "Hopefully guys know the importance of being fit. We still have three months to be where we want to be."<h2>India's next T20I assignment before World Cup</h2>Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.India will definitely be a favorite to win the tournaments but would be wary of other teams, especially Australia, who had beaten India in the final of 2023 ODI World Cup final - which was also played in India. Nonetheless, T20 is different format in which any team is capable of beating the other team on its day.

Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir says there's still work to do before the team reaches at a certain level to compete in the upcoming T20 World Cup. India will be entering the tournament as defending champions, having won the tournament in 2024 under Rohit Sharma. Since the win, Rohit along with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja have retired from the format for India. India appointed Suryakumar Yadav as the new skipper under whom India won the Asia Cup 2025 - the only multi-team tournament they played. Most recently, India won the five-match T20I series against Australia 2-1 away from home. Gambhir on India's T20 World Cup preps "It has been a very transparent dressing room, it has been a very honest dressing room and that is how we want this dressing room to be. I think we still aren't where we want to be come the T20 World Cup," Gambhir said in a clip shared by BCCI.TV. Also Read - IPL 2026: Raina wants CSK to retain Jadeja but release THESE three players The head coach also touched upon the important of fitness and said: "Hopefully guys know the importance of being fit. We still have three months to be where we want to be." India's next T20I assignment before World Cup Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka. India will definitely be a favorite to win the tournaments but would be wary of other teams, especially Australia, who had beaten India in the final of 2023 ODI World Cup final - which was also played in India. Nonetheless, T20 is different format in which any team is capable of beating the other team on its day.

Before the T20 World Cup 2026, India will be playing 10 more T20Is - five against South Africa and five against New Zealand. All 10 matches will be played in India - a huge advantage for Gambhir's team as the T20 World Cup would be hosted jointly in India and Sri Lanka.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir says India 'still aren't where we want' for upcoming T20 World Cup

Former BCCI chief selector and Indian opener Kris Srikkanth has taken another sly dig at the current Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, days after Gambhir subtly warned him against targeting players and questioning team selections. Following Gambhir’s reply to Srikkanth’s accusation over ‘favourism’ within the Indian Team, the veteran batter returned with sarcasm while defending keeper-batter Sanju Samson's batting position in the T20I side. Although Samson remains an integral part of the T20 setup leading into the 2026 home World Cup, his demotion to the middle order or a lower middle order has irked fans and pundits.&nbsp;Srikkanth didn’t mince his words in seeking answers from Gambhir over the unfair treatment of Samson as a T20I batter. From July 2024 until the start of this year’s Asia Cup, Samson rocked at the top for India, hitting three international centuries in this format. However, with Shubman Gill’s appointment as the new vice-captain and his return to the side at the top, the decision makers demoted Samson to the middle order, under-utilising him as a batter.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/massive-blow-to-india-as-shreyas-iyer-ruled-out-for-remainder-of-2025-doubtful-for-2026-t20-world-cup-report-1761811840334">Massive blow to India as Iyer ruled out for remainder of 2025, doubtful for 2026 T20 WC – Report</a> &nbsp;Even in the continental tournament in the UAE, Samson batted at number five in three matches, while not getting a chance in one despite the team losing six wickets. Frustrated to see a talent like Samson being shuffled around like a newcomer, Srikkanth called him the unluckiest Indian cricketer. &nbsp;“The guy who's most unlucky is Sanju Samson. He was scoring centuries as an opener. But now they send him everywhere — from No. 3 to No. 8. If given an opportunity, they may send him at No. 11 also! A person like Sanju will naturally feel bad after doing so well at the top, but he has no option but to be tight-lipped and bat wherever the team asks him to," Srikkanth said in his YouTube channel. &nbsp;He, however, was happy with one thing: Sanju remains team management’s top choice for next year’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. &nbsp;“The only good thing is he did well at No. 5 in the Asia Cup. It’s a good sign because Sanju is now the automatic choice as the first wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup,” he said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, in the recently concluded 1st T20I against Australia, which ended in a no-result, Samson was part of the playing XI but was slotted down the order to bat.&nbsp;

Even in the recently concluded 1st T20I against Australia, which ended in a no-result, Samson was part of the playing XI but was slotted down the order to bat. 

Former BCCI chief selector and Indian opener Kris Srikkanth has taken another sly dig at the current Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, days after Gambhir subtly warned him against targeting players and questioning team selections. Following Gambhir’s reply to Srikkanth’s accusation over ‘favourism’ within the Indian Team, the veteran batter returned with sarcasm while defending keeper-batter Sanju Samson's batting position in the T20I side. Although Samson remains an integral part of the T20 setup leading into the 2026 home World Cup, his demotion to the middle order or a lower middle order has irked fans and pundits. Srikkanth didn’t mince his words in seeking answers from Gambhir over the unfair treatment of Samson as a T20I batter. From July 2024 until the start of this year’s Asia Cup, Samson rocked at the top for India, hitting three international centuries in this format. However, with Shubman Gill’s appointment as the new vice-captain and his return to the side at the top, the decision makers demoted Samson to the middle order, under-utilising him as a batter. Also read | Massive blow to India as Iyer ruled out for remainder of 2025, doubtful for 2026 T20 WC – Report Even in the continental tournament in the UAE, Samson batted at number five in three matches, while not getting a chance in one despite the team losing six wickets. Frustrated to see a talent like Samson being shuffled around like a newcomer, Srikkanth called him the unluckiest Indian cricketer. “The guy who's most unlucky is Sanju Samson. He was scoring centuries as an opener. But now they send him everywhere — from No. 3 to No. 8. If given an opportunity, they may send him at No. 11 also! A person like Sanju will naturally feel bad after doing so well at the top, but he has no option but to be tight-lipped and bat wherever the team asks him to," Srikkanth said in his YouTube channel. He, however, was happy with one thing: Sanju remains team management’s top choice for next year’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. “The only good thing is he did well at No. 5 in the Asia Cup. It’s a good sign because Sanju is now the automatic choice as the first wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup,” he said. Meanwhile, in the recently concluded 1st T20I against Australia, which ended in a no-result, Samson was part of the playing XI but was slotted down the order to bat.

Even in the recently concluded 1st T20I against Australia, which ended in a no-result, Samson was part of the playing XI but was slotted down the order to bat.&nbsp;

Kris Srikkanth pinpoints India’s ‘unluckiest cricket’ in latest dig at head coach Gambhir

Harshit Rana's stocks has risen quite a lot in the recent times. From bowling KKR to victory in IPL 2024 final against SunRisers Hyderabad to making his debut on Australia Test tour - the pacer is now somewhat an all-format bowler for India, having made his debut in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin, however, isn't impressed with the pacer's selection across formats at all. Rana, who recently played at the Asia Cup 2025, will next be seen on Australia's white-ball tour where India will play three ODIs and five T20Is starting October 19.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-backs-captain-shubman-gill-urges-fans-to-stop-meme-game-and-accept-bcci-decision-1759996428824">Mohammed Shami backs captain Shubman Gill, urges fans to stop ‘meme game’</a><h2>Ashwin questions Harshit Rana's place in team</h2>"Why they are selecting him, I am not sure. I would love to be in the selection meeting to know the reason behind his inclusion. From my side, the reason I see is – In Australia we need that fast bowler who can bat. Someone trusts that he can bat, which is why they are selecting him as a potential No. 8. But I am not sure about his batting ability. Two years back he bowled a brilliant pacy delivery in the IPL final that flew off the edge (Nitish Kumar Reddy’s dismissal). He has played for a while now for that one delivery,” Ashwin remarked while talking on his YouTube channel.<h2>Harshit Rana's numbers in international cricket</h2>Rana has played two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is for India so far. In those matches, Rana has picked four wickets in Tests, 10 in 50-over cricket and five in the shortest format. While he has not been exception with his numbers, Rana's got something which has impressed the selectors and India coach Gautam Gambhir who was also the mentor of KKR in IPL 2024. In the IPL, Rana has played 34 matches and taken 40 wickets since his debut in 2022 and has since played only for Kolkata Knight Riders in the league.

Rana has played two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is for India so far. In those matches, Rana has picked four wickets in Tests, 10 in 50-over cricket and five in the shortest format.

Harshit Rana's stocks has risen quite a lot in the recent times. From bowling KKR to victory in IPL 2024 final against SunRisers Hyderabad to making his debut on Australia Test tour - the pacer is now somewhat an all-format bowler for India, having made his debut in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin, however, isn't impressed with the pacer's selection across formats at all. Rana, who recently played at the Asia Cup 2025, will next be seen on Australia's white-ball tour where India will play three ODIs and five T20Is starting October 19. Also Read - Mohammed Shami backs captain Shubman Gill, urges fans to stop ‘meme game’ Ashwin questions Harshit Rana's place in team "Why they are selecting him, I am not sure. I would love to be in the selection meeting to know the reason behind his inclusion. From my side, the reason I see is – In Australia we need that fast bowler who can bat. Someone trusts that he can bat, which is why they are selecting him as a potential No. 8. But I am not sure about his batting ability. Two years back he bowled a brilliant pacy delivery in the IPL final that flew off the edge (Nitish Kumar Reddy’s dismissal). He has played for a while now for that one delivery,” Ashwin remarked while talking on his YouTube channel. Harshit Rana's numbers in international cricket Rana has played two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is for India so far. In those matches, Rana has picked four wickets in Tests, 10 in 50-over cricket and five in the shortest format. While he has not been exception with his numbers, Rana's got something which has impressed the selectors and India coach Gautam Gambhir who was also the mentor of KKR in IPL 2024. In the IPL, Rana has played 34 matches and taken 40 wickets since his debut in 2022 and has since played only for Kolkata Knight Riders in the league.

Rana has played two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is for India so far. In those matches, Rana has picked four wickets in Tests, 10 in 50-over cricket and five in the shortest format.

Ravi Ashwin questions KKR player's place in India team, says 'not sure' why selectors are picking him

Former two-time IPL winner and Kolkata Knight Riders’ key batter, Manoj Tiwary, has launched a scathing attack on current India head coach Gautam Gambhir for forcing Indian stalwarts into taking early retirements. Accusing Gambhir of ruining the team culture, Tiwary said the dressing room environment hasn’t been pleasing since Gambhir assumed the head coach role last year. While the batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their respective Test retirements under Gambhir’s tenure in May 2025, they hung up their T20I boots following India’s second T20 World Cup when Dravid was the head coach.&nbsp;Not only them, but ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also announced his international retirement last December, midway through the away Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Three top players deciding to step aside in six months forced the selectors to make a plethora of changes ahead of the concluded UK tour, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test captain. &nbsp;Meanwhile, having played with and under Gambhir for India and in the IPL, Tiwary, who also has a history with Gambhir, accused the head coach of forcing these greats to take early retirements, as he doesn’t like his ideas being questioned.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-australia-announce-odi-t20i-squads-for-india-series-matt-renshaw-earns-call-up-starc-returns-1759811900673">IND vs AUS: Australia announce squads for India series; Renshaw earns ODI call-up</a> &nbsp;“If the senior players are there, if Ashwin is there, if Rohit is there or if Rohit is there, then these guys have played so much cricket, these guys are established much more than the head coach or the other staff, these guys will raise questions if they don't agree to a point. You just made sure that these guys are not there, basically,” Tiwary said in a chat with InsideSport. &nbsp;“I have observed that since this coach took on the role, a lot of controversies have arisen. Many things that are happening are not good for Indian cricket. I believe that since the time he has been the head coach, Ashwin has taken a retirement. Rohit and Virat have also done so. Other things have happened, such as players being unexpectedly added to the squad and then being straight into the starting XI. We have seen that Gambhir has not been consistent,” he added.<h3>What about RoKo’s ODI future? &nbsp;</h3>Fondly known as ‘RoKo’ among the fans, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are part of Team India’s ODI squad for the away Australia series, starting October 19 in Perth. Although social media chatter is that the pair could bow out of Indian cricket following the tour Down Under, Tiwary feels Gambhir will back them in the ODIs.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I believe the circumstances that have been created, the atmosphere that has been created, the pressure that is there on these players, I believe Rohit and Virat have been outstanding servants of Indian cricket. They have taken Indian cricket to new heights. The players who give their heart and soul, we have seen they have given their everything," Tiwary said. &nbsp;“If these players feel that things are affecting their image and they are no longer wanted in the dressing room, then they might consider retiring. I believe they want to play. I think Gambhir won't take this big a call of not having these two individuals because, in the white-ball format, no one can deny the fact that these two have been outstanding. It would be a really poor decision if Gautam doesn't include these two in the scheme of things for the World Cup,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India will tour Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is.

Three top players deciding to step aside in six months forced the selectors to make a plethora of changes ahead of the concluded UK tour, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test captain.

Former two-time IPL winner and Kolkata Knight Riders’ key batter, Manoj Tiwary, has launched a scathing attack on current India head coach Gautam Gambhir for forcing Indian stalwarts into taking early retirements. Accusing Gambhir of ruining the team culture, Tiwary said the dressing room environment hasn’t been pleasing since Gambhir assumed the head coach role last year. While the batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their respective Test retirements under Gambhir’s tenure in May 2025, they hung up their T20I boots following India’s second T20 World Cup when Dravid was the head coach. Not only them, but ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also announced his international retirement last December, midway through the away Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Three top players deciding to step aside in six months forced the selectors to make a plethora of changes ahead of the concluded UK tour, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test captain. Meanwhile, having played with and under Gambhir for India and in the IPL, Tiwary, who also has a history with Gambhir, accused the head coach of forcing these greats to take early retirements, as he doesn’t like his ideas being questioned. Also read | IND vs AUS: Australia announce squads for India series; Renshaw earns ODI call-up “If the senior players are there, if Ashwin is there, if Rohit is there or if Rohit is there, then these guys have played so much cricket, these guys are established much more than the head coach or the other staff, these guys will raise questions if they don't agree to a point. You just made sure that these guys are not there, basically,” Tiwary said in a chat with InsideSport. “I have observed that since this coach took on the role, a lot of controversies have arisen. Many things that are happening are not good for Indian cricket. I believe that since the time he has been the head coach, Ashwin has taken a retirement. Rohit and Virat have also done so. Other things have happened, such as players being unexpectedly added to the squad and then being straight into the starting XI. We have seen that Gambhir has not been consistent,” he added. What about RoKo’s ODI future? Fondly known as ‘RoKo’ among the fans, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are part of Team India’s ODI squad for the away Australia series, starting October 19 in Perth. Although social media chatter is that the pair could bow out of Indian cricket following the tour Down Under, Tiwary feels Gambhir will back them in the ODIs. "I believe the circumstances that have been created, the atmosphere that has been created, the pressure that is there on these players, I believe Rohit and Virat have been outstanding servants of Indian cricket. They have taken Indian cricket to new heights. The players who give their heart and soul, we have seen they have given their everything," Tiwary said. “If these players feel that things are affecting their image and they are no longer wanted in the dressing room, then they might consider retiring. I believe they want to play. I think Gambhir won't take this big a call of not having these two individuals because, in the white-ball format, no one can deny the fact that these two have been outstanding. It would be a really poor decision if Gautam doesn't include these two in the scheme of things for the World Cup,” he continued. Meanwhile, India will tour Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is.

Three top players deciding to step aside in six months forced the selectors to make a plethora of changes ahead of the concluded UK tour, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test captain.

IPL winner slams India coach Gambhir for forcing Rohit, Kohli into early retirements

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