The head coach’s public defense of the Kolkata turning track has caused friction, with his long-term future now tied to India’s performance at the T20 World Cup.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s forthright comments in support of the turning pitch at Eden Gardens following India’s recent Test defeat to South Africa have reportedly caused discontent within the BCCI. Although the board is stopping short of taking immediate action, sources suggest that Gambhir’s position, currently secure due to a “lack of alternatives,” could face intense scrutiny later this year if the team underperforms, particularly in the upcoming T20 World Cup at home.
The board’s frustration stems from Gambhir publicly endorsing the black-soil surface, where India suffered a humiliating 30-run loss after being bowled out for 93 in the fourth innings. This defeat marked India’s third consecutive home Test series loss. Despite the team’s glaring technical shortcomings being exposed on the challenging wicket, Gambhir insisted that the pitch was exactly what the team had requested.
In his post-match comments, Gambhir stated, “This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. The curator was very, very helpful and supportive… When you don’t play well, this is what happens.” He defended the wicket, saying there were “no demons” and that it challenged players’ “technique,” “mental toughness,” and “temperament,” especially their ability to play spin.
These remarks reportedly caused a flutter within the BCCI, as the entire batting unit struggled on the surfaces used during the series, raising questions about the team’s preparation strategy and overall adaptability. While a broader review involving Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar is expected to address India’s Test decline, drastic changes are not anticipated immediately, and the idea of split coaching has been dismissed as “far-fetched.”
Assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak, however, jumped to Gambhir’s defense, claiming the head coach took the blame to protect the curators. Kotak insisted, “Gautam took the blame on himself because he didn’t want the curators to take the blame,” and questioned why all the criticism was being directed solely at Gambhir, suggesting that “some people have their individual agendas.”
Despite the immediate reprieve, a board official hinted that “There will be deeper conversations after the white-ball season.” Gambhir’s long-term tenure is now heavily linked to India’s performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup, with a poor campaign on home soil likely to reignite discussions about a change in team leadership.