Gautam Gambhir News: Gautam Gambhir’s position as part of India’s coaching setup has come under fresh scrutiny following India’s recent struggles in Test cricket. While Gambhir has enjoyed notable success as India’s white-ball coach, questions are now being raised about his effectiveness in the red-ball format, especially after a disappointing series loss against South Africa.

According to multiple reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informally approached former India batter VVS Laxman to explore the possibility of him taking charge of the Test team. Although no official move has been made so far, the development has sparked intense debate about Gambhir’s future role within Indian cricket.

There is no doubt that Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as white-ball coach has delivered results. Under his guidance, India has won major ICC and ACC tournaments, reinforcing the team’s dominance in limited-overs cricket. His aggressive mindset, emphasis on fearless cricket, and tactical clarity have worked well in ODIs and T20Is.

However, the picture looks very different in Test cricket. India’s performances in the longest format—particularly overseas—have been inconsistent. Reports indicate that India has suffered 10 Test defeats against SENA nations (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) during this phase. The recent two-match Test series loss to South Africa further intensified criticism of the red-ball setup.

These results have led the BCCI to reassess whether the current coaching structure is suitable for Test cricket moving forward.

Following the South Africa series defeat, a senior BCCI official reportedly held informal discussions with VVS Laxman, asking whether he would be interested in becoming the head coach of India’s Test team. Laxman, a former Test great and widely respected cricketing mind, is currently serving as the Head of Cricket at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

However, sources suggest that Laxman is not keen on taking up a full-time role with the senior Test team. He is said to be satisfied with his current responsibilities and prefers to continue working in player development and long-term planning rather than stepping into the demanding role of national team coach.

A BCCI source, speaking to PTI on condition of anonymity, clarified that Gautam Gambhir still enjoys strong backing at the highest levels of Indian cricket.

“Gautam Gambhir has solid support within Indian cricket. If India wins the upcoming T20 World Cup or at least reaches the final, it will become much easier for him to continue in his role,” the source said.

The official also pointed out that alternatives for the red-ball coaching role are limited. “It will be interesting to see whether Gambhir continues handling Test responsibilities as well. Apart from him, there aren’t many available options. VVS Laxman is not showing much interest in coaching the senior Test side and is happy with his role at the Centre of Excellence,” the source added.

Gautam Gambhir’s coaching contract with the BCCI is valid until the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, insiders suggest that his position—particularly concerning Test cricket—could be reviewed after the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins in the next few weeks.

Within the BCCI, discussions are ongoing about whether Gambhir should continue as the red-ball coach for the remainder of the 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, which includes nine crucial Test matches.

India’s Test calendar over the next two years leaves little room for error. After a hard-fought 2–2 draw in the five-Test series in England, India faces a demanding schedule:

• August 2026: Two-Test series against Sri Lanka

• October 2026: Tour of New Zealand

• January–February 2027: Five-match Test series against Australia

These overseas tours will play a decisive role in shaping India’s Test future and could heavily influence the BCCI’s final call on Gambhir’s role in red-ball cricket.

For now, Gautam Gambhir remains firmly in place, especially in white-ball cricket where his results speak for themselves. However, Test cricket continues to be the key area of concern. With limited coaching options available and major tournaments on the horizon, the BCCI is expected to tread cautiously before making any big decisions.

Much will depend on India’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup and the board’s long-term vision for Test cricket. Whether Gambhir continues to handle both formats or sees a reshuffle in responsibilities remains one of the most closely watched developments in Indian cricket going into 2026.