Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has dismissed claims that the team is struggling in Test cricket. Ahead of the second Test match against Sri Lanka, Gambhir emphasized that the team is in a transition phase, focusing on building a new core around skipper Shubman Gill. He stated, “My job is to win trophies. That’s all I believe in and care for. I don’t care about views or likes.” Gambhir reiterated that the priority is on winning trophies rather than being concerned about rankings or external criticism.
Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir completely rejected suggestions that the side has been struggling in Test cricket and said that the team is currently going through a transition phase.
The Test side has gone through significant changes since Gambhir took charge. Virat Kohli , R Ashwin and Rohit Sharma all retired from the format and different results – including series losses against New Zealand, South Africa and Australia – led to massive pressure on the coach and the team. “There will be ups and downs in cricket, and we need to back our players and give them longer rope, and it’s not based on one or two matches. Gambhir also advocated for three-match Test series instead of two as in that case, a team gets a better chance of fighting back even if they lose the first contest. “Three-Test series is ideal. Short turnaround is fine, we know how to manage our bodies and recover. We give optional practices and rest bowlers. Sometimes, if you lose the first Test, the other team cannot make a comeback and the maximum they can try for a draw…”
We will try to field the best bowling attack that can get us 20 wickets. “Ideally I would want a 3 match Test series.
However, Gambhir said that such turmoils are not uncommon in cricket. Kuldeep is a good bowler and sometimes it’s up to the captain as well,” he said. I feel a three Test series is ideal,” he said.
