Gambhir eyes full control of Team India, only Bumrah can stop him, says report

Following the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket, India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has reportedly sought full control over the team’s operations. According to a report in Dainik Jagran, Gambhir wants to end the ‘superstar’ culture prevalent in Indian cricket. He also implemented a 10-point protocol that encouraged players to participate in domestic cricket whenever possible and uphold specific behavior standards during tours. His approach also focuses on developing a team for the future.

Reports suggest that Gambhir was central to the decision to phase out both Kohli and Rohit, who announced their retirements shortly before squad selection for the England tour. Gautam had a discussion with the selectors about the need to invest in young players. This represents an unusual scenario, as Indian cricket teams are traditionally captain-led, with coaches playing their role from behind the scenes. However, Gambhir’s influence is now equal to that of the captain, and with the departure of key players, he is expected to take charge of team-related decisions.

“In order to stop a repeat of the home-series defeat against New Zealand and the debacle in Australia, Gambhir has requested the board for full autonomy,” the report said.

The report indicates that Shubman Gill is expected to be appointed as captain, given his age and the likelihood that he will follow Gambhir’s mentorship. While Gill is already a star, he has not yet reached the point where he could question Gambhir’s decisions. The only player in the current Indian Test lineup with the potential strength to challenge Gambhir’s tactics is pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah would have been the obvious choice for the Test captaincy, but his fitness issues have pushed him back in the order. He was the vice-captain under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and has captained India in three Test matches. However, his role as a key fast bowler means his workload must be managed, preventing him from taking on a full-time captaincy role.

Even if Gill is selected as captain, Gambhir is expected to have the ultimate authority on decisions regarding the Indian Test team.

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