5 Reasons Why Gautam Gambhir Should Be Replaced as Test Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir’s arrival as the Test head coach came with immense expectations. With his sharp cricketing mind, fearless attitude, and proven success in shorter formats, many believed he would bring similar success to the longest format. To be fair, Gambhir has done well in limited overs cricket—leading to major wins like the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and several home series. However, when it comes to the traditional format of the game, his coaching tenure has raised serious concerns.

While fans continue to celebrate victories in white-ball formats, Test cricket is witnessing a noticeable decline. Here’s why it's time to rethink Gambhir’s role in the red-ball setup.

1. A Troubling Start with No Real Progress

Since Gambhir took charge, the Test side has endured shocking results. The most glaring was a rare whitewash at home against New Zealand—an event that shattered the team’s dominance on familiar soil. This was followed by a disappointing 3-1 loss in Australia, where the team looked uninspired and underprepared.

These weren’t isolated setbacks. Barring a win against Bangladesh, there has been no forward momentum. Tactics have lacked depth, motivation appears low, and there’s no clear identity or strategy. Test cricket has seemingly taken a backseat under Gambhir’s stewardship.

2. A New Test Era Requires a Red Ball Specialist

With key figures like Kohli, Rohit, and Ashwin moving on, a new chapter has begun. Under Shubman Gill’s leadership, the focus should be on long-term planning. But Gambhir’s choices have often seemed arbitrary and short-sighted.

For instance, Mohammed Shami was left out based on T20 form, which has no relevance in the Test arena. Rishabh Pant, still recovering from injury, was rushed back. Worse, young players from Gambhir's past teams were favoured over consistent red-ball performers.

Test cricket demands merit-based selections and a deep understanding of five-day challenges—not just familiarity or white-ball success.

3. Lack of Tactical Presence During Games

In today’s high-level sport, a coach’s job extends far beyond dressing room discussions. Tactical awareness and real-time input from the sidelines are crucial—especially in the pressure cooker that is Test cricket.

Take Brendon McCullum, who was seen actively strategizing during tense moments in England’s matches. Gambhir, in contrast, has remained largely invisible during games. His absence from on-field decision-making raises questions about his adaptability and presence in the Test format.

4. One-Dimensional Thinking from the White Ball World

One of the major tactical flaws under Gambhir has been importing white ball logic into red ball scenarios. He has repeatedly chosen batting-heavy lineups and all-rounders over specialist bowlers. That approach may work in T20s but leaves the team exposed in Tests.

For example, in the first Test of the current England series, this tactic backfired as the opposition chased down a huge target. In another match, the top order collapsed without resistance. These outcomes highlight the risks of applying limited overs strategies to a format that demands discipline and endurance.

5. Selections Based on Popularity, Not Performance

Possibly the most alarming pattern under Gambhir is the reliance on recent T20 fame over sustained red-ball excellence. Players like Sai Sudharsan and Prasidh Krishna have been fast-tracked into the Test team, bypassing domestic performers who have proven themselves over seasons.

A glaring example is Sarfaraz Khan, who was dropped despite strong form and visible fitness improvements. At the same time, experienced players are being shuffled across positions with little clarity or structure.

This lack of role definition points to poor planning and inconsistency at the top.

Time for a Shift in Mindset

Gambhir's achievements in white ball formats are noteworthy. However, the traditional format requires a completely different mindset—one rooted in patience, strategy, and consistency. With a young team on the rise, there is a pressing need for a head coach who lives and breathes red-ball cricket.

This is where leadership must evolve. Rebuilding a successful long-format team requires foresight, an eye for red ball potential, and unwavering commitment to the format’s unique demands.

 Final Thoughts

The future of the longest format depends on visionary leadership. Red-ball cricket is not about quick results or highlight reels. It is about long-term structure, grit, and nurturing the next generation of players with clarity.

While Gambhir has delivered in limited overs, it’s becoming increasingly clear that he is not the right fit for the traditional format. The management must act before the format loses further momentum.

As fans engage with teams through platforms like BetinExch and BetinExchange, the excitement around the sport is only growing. Ensuring that red-ball cricket thrives requires the right personnel at every level—and that starts with coaching.