Despite India securing a win in the Ranchi ODI against South Africa, the dark cloud of criticism hanging over head coach Gautam Gambhir refuses to lift. The recent Test series debacle, where India suffered a 2-0 whitewash against the Proteas, has amplified the pressure on the former opener, creating a tense atmosphere around his leadership.
Mounting Pressure and Fan Backlash
Since assuming the coaching role, Gambhir has overseen two significant Test series defeats at home—first against New Zealand and now against South Africa. This disappointing record has led to growing frustration among the passionate Indian cricket fanbase. The anger reached a boiling point following the massive 408-run defeat in Guwahati, where sections of the crowd began chanting derogatory slogans against the coach.
The situation escalated so quickly that batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj had to intervene to calm the agitated spectators. Adding to the controversy, fans are actively debating Gambhir's reported equations with senior stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, with many speculating about the ODI futures of both players.
Zaheer Khan's Counsel: Thick Skin and Clear Vision
Amid this turmoil, former India pace spearhead Zaheer Khan, who was Gambhir's teammate during the 2011 World Cup triumph, offered some pointed advice. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Zaheer urged the embattled coach to toughen up and face the music with composure. "Emotions run high. When you've been winning consistently, expectations rise. Accountability will always follow," Zaheer stated.
He emphasized that the high-profile role naturally invites intense scrutiny and that Gambhir must learn to remain balanced. "You've got to be thick-skinned to deal with these kinds of criticism. It comes with the passion and expectations surrounding the team," he added. Zaheer further stressed the importance of clear communication, suggesting that Gambhir needs to be more open about his vision and selection philosophy to manage fan expectations.
Questionable Decisions and a Poor Run of Form
The criticism directed at Gambhir is not without context. India's recent form under his guidance has been concerning. The team lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka last year, followed by a surprising whitewash in New Zealand. In the longest format, the statistics are stark: India have lost five of their last seven Tests with Gambhir at the helm.
Specific decisions have also drawn sharp reactions. Gambhir has been criticized for fielding too many all-rounders in the Test XI at the expense of specialist batters or bowlers. His call to prepare a rank turner in Kolkata for the South Africa Test backfired, especially as India had previously suffered a 0-3 defeat on similar surfaces in New Zealand.
Zaheer Khan concluded by highlighting the path forward. He believes transparency about the team's long-term process and thought process can help bridge the gap with supporters. "If the team is clearer and more vocal about its thought process, the fans will understand where they're coming from. It's important not to get carried away," Zaheer advised, underscoring that honest engagement is key to weathering the storm.
