Kirsten Questions Gambhir’s Suitability as National Coach

Gary Kirsten, the former head coach of India, voiced his concerns on Sunday regarding Gautam Gambhir’s coaching methodology and its potential effectiveness with the present generation of Indian cricketers.

Speaking to the Indian press prior to the fourth Test against England, Kirsten recognized Gambhir’s leadership experience and accomplishments in the IPL. However, he expressed doubt about how well Gambhir’s demeanor and strategies would convert into training a national team made up of varied individuals.

“I am unfamiliar with Gautam Gambhir as a coach. As a player, I admired Gautam. He possesses a tenacity that is quite beneficial. I believe he is exceptionally strong,” he remarked.

Kirsten reflected on Gambhir’s leadership traits during his playing days.

“He has a distinct personality and approach. The crucial question is whether that personality and style resonate with Indian players. That is essentially what matters,” Kirsten commented.

He recounted an instance when Gambhir was appointed ODI captain before a tour to South Africa.

“He achieved success in the IPL. I recall when we divided the one-day and Test teams and appointed him as the one-day captain against New Zealand before the South Africa tour. He performed exceptionally well,” Kirsten stated.

Gambhir’s early period as head coach has been a mixed bag. In January 2025, India had a painful defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but they bounced back to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, just months after winning the T20 World Cup in 2024.

In the current five-Test series in England, England leads 2-1, with the fourth Test scheduled to begin on Wednesday in Manchester.

Following Rohit Sharma’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket before the tour, Shubman Gill is leading the team.