Gambhir’s Test Future in Doubt After SA Whitewash, BCCI Sounds Out VVS Laxman

The future of Gautam Gambhir as India’s Test team coach has come under scrutiny following a disappointing home whitewash against South Africa cricket team, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India reportedly exploring alternative options.

According to a report, a senior figure within the BCCI informally approached VVS Laxman soon after the series defeat to gauge his interest in taking charge of India’s red-ball setup. However, Laxman is understood to be content in his current role as Head of Cricket at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is not keen on coaching the senior Test side.

Strong white-ball record, worrying Test returns

While Gambhir’s tenure in white-ball cricket has delivered results — including ICC and ACC titles — his Test record has raised concerns. India have suffered 10 Test defeats against SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia) nations during his stint, prompting questions about his suitability to continue in the longest format.

Gambhir’s contract with the BCCI runs until the end of the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, sources suggest that his role, particularly in Tests, could be reassessed based on India’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins in five weeks.

Split coaching model under consideration

Within BCCI circles, there is reportedly no consensus yet on whether Gambhir should remain in charge of the Test team for the remaining nine matches of the World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.

India’s Test calendar includes two-match away series in Sri Lanka in August 2026 and New Zealand in October, followed by a high-profile five-Test home series against Australia in early 2027.

“Gambhir does have strong backing in the corridors of power,” a BCCI source told PTI. “If India retain the T20 World Cup or at least reach the final, his position across formats will strengthen. But the question remains whether he should continue as Test coach.”

The lack of alternatives has also worked in Gambhir’s favour, with Laxman unwilling to take on the senior Test role.

Dressing room unease

The report also points to growing uncertainty within the Indian dressing room under the current regime. Several players are said to feel less secure compared to the tenure of former head coach Rahul Dravid, when roles were clearly defined and players were given longer runs to establish themselves.

The omission of Shubman Gill from the T20 World Cup squad is cited as an example that has unsettled the squad, reinforcing the perception that no player’s place is guaranteed under the present setup.

Decision likely after T20 World Cup

With the Indian Premier League set to follow the T20 World Cup, the BCCI will have a window of time to evaluate performance and decide whether to continue with a single head coach across formats or adopt a split coaching model.

For now, Gambhir retains influential backing, but the next two months could prove decisive in determining whether he continues to lead India’s red-ball ambitions.