A day after Head Coach Gautam Gambhir left his future up to the BCCI following India’s 0-2 Test series defeat to South Africa, a senior board official confirmed no immediate action will be taken, insisting the team remains in a “transition phase” with the coach’s contract secure until the 2027 World Cup.
November 27, 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted for continuity over drastic change, standing by Head Coach Gautam Gambhir despite the team suffering its second home Test series whitewash in the last 12 months.
The move comes after India’s comprehensive 0-2 defeat to South Africa, a result that adds to Gambhir’s growing list of Test setbacks, which include home losses to New Zealand (3-0) and an away series loss to Australia.
Gambhir Puts Fate in BCCI’s Hands
Facing intense media scrutiny following the loss in Guwahati, Gambhir addressed his future directly, emphasizing his commitment to the broader goals of Indian cricket.
Gautam Gambhir: “It is up to the BCCI to decide. I said it in my first press conference when I took over as the head coach that Indian cricket is important; I am not. And I sit here sticking by the same thing…”
He, however, defended his overall tenure, reminding the press that under his leadership, India had recently won the Champions Trophy, drew the Test series in England, and won the Asia Cup.
BCCI Prioritizes Stability
A senior BCCI official, speaking to The Indian Express, made it clear that the board would not be influenced by the recent result, citing upcoming World Cups and the team’s ongoing development.
“The BCCI will not rush in taking any decision, the team is in a transition phase,” the official stated. “As far as coach Gautam Gambhir is concerned, we will not take any decision on him as the World Cup is around the corner and his contract is till the 2027 World Cup. The BCCI will speak to selectors and team management going ahead but there won’t be any knee-jerk action.”
Criticism Over Tactics and Batting
The defeats have sparked a public debate, largely centering on the team’s inability to post competitive totals and questionable tactical decisions, such as the persistent focus on spin-friendly pitches that ultimately benefited the visitors. Gambhir specifically pointed to the recurring batting collapses—like the slide from 95 for 1 to 120 for 7 in the second Test—as key turning points.
Accepting full responsibility, Gambhir stated, “Everyone in that dressing room—and it starts with me—is accountable.”
Despite the criticism, the board confirmed that the core group of players is likely to be retained for the immediate future, with the BCCI prioritizing discussions with the team management over large-scale personnel changes.