(Image source from: News24online.com)

The BCCI, or the Board of Control for Cricket in India, is not intending to let go of Gautam Gambhir, even though India has not performed well in Test matches since he took on the role. The former batsman from Delhi became the head coach of the Indian team in July 2024 following Rahul Dravid’s departure, but under his leadership, India has only won seven out of 19 Test matches played so far. He led India to victory in one Test in Australia last year and two in England this year, but the team faced crushing defeats, losing 0-3 to New Zealand and 0-2 to South Africa at home. Gambhir has lost five Tests at home, which is the highest number for any Indian head coach, and he is the only Indian head coach to be completely defeated in a home Test series on two occasions. Following the disappointing losses against South Africa last month in front of their own supporters, some are calling for Gambhir to be replaced as head coach for the Test format. However, BCCI has no intention of parting ways with him.

The day after BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia denied rumors about bringing VVS Laxman in as Gambhir’s replacement for Tests, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla also refuted claims of Gambhir leaving his position. Shukla indicated that there are no intentions to remove Gambhir or introduce a new head coach for the Indian team. "I want to clarify the rumors that are moving around in the media about head coach Gautam Gambhir. BCCI secretary (Devajit Saikia) has also confirmed that there are no plans to remove or appoint a new head coach for India," Shukla stated. Gambhir's current contract as head coach of the Indian team extends until November 2027, and it appears that he will continue to lead the team until that time.

India's next Test series is scheduled for August 2026 against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka, followed by a two-match series in New Zealand. The final series of the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for India will take place against Australia in the early part of 2027. The 2027 Border-Gavaskar Trophy will consist of five Test matches, and for India to qualify for the WTC 2027 final, they need to win at least seven of the remaining nine matches.