His vocal defence of the surface has not gone over well with BCCI authorities, particularly in light of India’s red-ball performance.
Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, has been under intense fire following India’s 30-run defeat to South Africa in the first Test at Eden Gardens. According to various sources,at home reportedly being his make-or-break moment.
India’s loss in Kolkata extended a trend of losing three straight home Test series. The Eden Gardens pitch, which is comprised of black earth, became a significant talking topic after India was bowled out for 93 in the fourth innings. Instead of condemning the surface, Gambhir applauded it, describing it as the type of pitch the squad had requested.
According to NDTV, the BCCI is dissatisfied with Gambhir’s comments at the news conference. His comments were deemed needless at a time when fans and experts were already pointing out the team’s weaknesses and lack of temperament against spin and bounce.
“The BCCI is not exactly pleased with India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s forthright comments on the Kolkata pitch following the team’s recent Test defeat to South Africa, even as the board stops short of taking any immediate action. Sources indicate that while Gambhir is likely to remain in charge for now due to a “lack of alternatives”, his position could come under
the BCCI is dissatisfied with Gambhir’s post-match remarks criticising the Kolkata pitch. While the board has not taken any immediate action, Gambhir’s stay is now being keenly monitored, with the 2026 T20 World Cup scrutiny later this year, particularly if India underperforms in the T20 World Cup at home,” the report read.
BCCI to conduct performance review with Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar
Sources quoted in reports said that although Gambhir will remain coach for now due to a lack of alternatives, his position is not completely secure. The board is expected to conduct a performance review with Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar at the end of the South Africa white-ball series.
Notably, the BCCI is clear that Gambhir’s future depends heavily on India’s showing in the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be hosted at home. Despite the team’s poor Test form, the head coach is still trusted for his white-ball results, including the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup wins. But failure in the T20 World Cup could push the board to rethink his role.
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