Chopra Highlights Gambhir’s Accountability Amidst Red-Ball Struggles

Aakash Chopra, the former Indian batter, voiced his concerns on Saturday regarding Gautam Gambhir’s performance as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. Chopra specifically drew attention to the team’s less-than-stellar showing in Test cricket during Gambhir’s tenure.

In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Chopra noted that Gambhir is facing considerable pressure due to the team’s performance, especially in the red-ball format.

“Gautam Gambhir is under significant pressure, and it’s continuously building,” Chopra stated.

“Reviewing his record in red-ball cricket reveals a lack of victories,” he added.

Chopra emphasized that Gambhir must be held responsible for the squad’s difficulties in Test matches.

“His leadership in white-ball cricket has yielded positive results, with the team performing admirably. However, his Test cricket record raises considerable questions,” Chopra elaborated.

He also mentioned that despite the selectors and team management fulfilling most of his requirements, Gambhir’s squad has encountered difficulties in achieving consistent success in the longer format of the game.

“If the series ahead doesn’t go as planned, serious doubts will arise. Selectors are supporting the team management by providing requested players, and in return, favorable outcomes are expected. There are no acceptable excuses.”

Under Gambhir’s coaching, the team has participated in 11 Test matches, securing only three wins—two against Bangladesh and one against Australia—while suffering seven losses and drawing one.

Currently, England holds a 1–0 lead in the ongoing five-match Test series against India, with England winning the Headingley Test by five wickets.

Notably, despite five Indian batsmen achieving centuries, India made history as the first team to lose a Test match under such circumstances.