The Indian team has received a lot of criticism after their disappointing performance, and the squad’s suffering has been exacerbated by several claims of discord within the coaching staff and players.
Gautam Gambhir, the team’s 43-year-old head coach, is being criticised from all sides for the team’s recent results. During Gambhir’s tenure, India has notably lost six of the last ten Test matches, including a 3-1 loss in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, which put an end to India’s ten-year domination in the bilateral competition.
Fresh claims have surfaced regarding a possible breach between coaches Gambhir and Morne Morkel, despite numerous reports indicating dissension in the Indian dressing room.
According to a TOI story, Gambhir was upset with Morkel for being late for a practice because of a personal commitment. According to reports, a frustrated Gambhir reprimanded his teammate in front of the group.
When it comes to discipline, Gautam Gambhir is really strict. He scolded Morkel right on the ground. It has been reported to the board that Morkel was rather reticent for the remainder of the tour. For the team to work well, these two must resolve their differences,” the insider stated, as cited by TOI.
Under investigation are Ryan Ten Doeschate and Abhishek Nayar.
Batting coach Abhishek Nayar is the other member of the coaching staff being investigated. The players are reported to have provided advice to the board over whether the 41-year-old’s presence is beneficial. Ryan ten Doeschate’s status as assistant coach is also being questioned, with his lack of international experience at the forefront of the debate.
Abhishek Nayar, the batting coach, is being scrutinised in particular because Gambhir has been a successful batter. The players have been questioned by the board about what Nayar is bringing to the table. The role of assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate is also being debated. It has been questioned whether he can help improve an international cricket player’s performance given his lack of international expertise,” the insider continued.