Indians Likely to Replace Gautam Gambhir as Head Coach
As India faces a turning point in its cricket leadership, the performance of the current head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has come under scrutiny. The recent loss to Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 cycle, which was a significant six-wicket defeat, reflects a broader pattern of challenges under Gambhir’s guidance. Notably, India has also faced a whitewash in a New Zealand series at home, a loss in an ODI series in Sri Lanka, and a setback in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, which concluded with Australia winning 3-1.
Due to these outcomes, there is speculation about possible candidates to replace Gambhir. Three prominent former players have surfaced as potential successors: WV Raman, VVS Laxman, and Ravi Shastri.
**WV Raman: A Proven Track Record**
WV Raman brings a history of success, including coaching Tamil Nadu to a Vijay Hazare Trophy victory. He was also the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team, demonstrating his ability to lead teams to success on different levels. His experience and tactical acumen make him a strong candidate for the head coach position.
**VVS Laxman: Rising Through the Ranks**
Another potential candidate is VVS Laxman, who has experience as a backup coach for the Indian team. Currently, he serves as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he is responsible for nurturing future cricket talent in India. This role has given him a strategic understanding of player development and team management, positioning him as a viable option to lead the national team.
**Ravi Shastri: The Veteran Mentor**
Ravi Shastri is a seasoned coach who previously held the position from 2017 to 2021. His tenure was marked by significant achievements for Indian cricket. Shastri’s deep understanding of the game and familiarity with the dynamics of the national team could provide the continuity needed during this transitional phase.
The decision on the new head coach will be crucial as India aims to rebuild and prepare for future international challenges. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and experiences that could help guide the team back to its winning ways.
19:30 IST
