India head coach Gautam Gambhir has firmly ruled out stepping down from his role, despite the national Test team’s recent struggles. India suffered five losses in seven home Tests over the past year, including a 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand and a 2-0 defeat to South Africa, sparking discussions about Gambhir’s future.
However, the two-time World Cup winner emphasized his accomplishments since taking charge. Appointed after Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended post the T20 World Cup win on June 29, Gambhir highlighted India’s successes in white-ball cricket, including Champions Trophy and Asia Cup victories.
Speaking at a post-match press conference in Guwahati following India’s 408-run defeat against South Africa—their largest-ever Test loss by runs—Gambhir said, “It is up to the BCCI to decide. I said it in my first press conference when I took over that Indian cricket is important; I am not. I sit here sticking by the same thing. People may forget that under me, India also achieved results in England and won the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup. This is a young team gaining experience, and they need time to learn and grow.”
Gambhir acknowledged the team’s collective responsibility, adding, “Blame lies with everyone in the dressing room, and it starts with me. We win together and lose together. Test cricket is never easy against top-quality opposition, especially with a side where 4-5 of our top 8 batters have played fewer than 15 Tests.”
Despite facing criticism from fans, former players, and the media, Gambhir remains steadfast, focusing on building experience in a young squad while learning from recent defeats.
