new Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) alone must take a call on his future after India suffered a historic 0-2 Test series defeat against South Africa, marking the Proteas’ first series sweep on Indian soil in 25 years.
Addressing the media after India’s crushing 408-run loss in Guwahati, Gambhir made it clear that he wasn’t seeking sympathy or additional chances in his role.
“It is for the BCCI to decide. Indian cricket is important; I am not important,” Gambhir said.
“I am the same person who delivered results in England, won the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup. This is a team that is still learning.”
“Blame Starts With Me” – Gambhir Accepts Responsibility
At the outset of the press conference, Gambhir stressed that the entire unit must share responsibility for the defeat, but accountability begins with him.
“Blame lies with everyone, but it starts with me,” he said, adding that a collapse from 95/1 to 122/7 was unacceptable at the Test level.
The head coach refused to single out players or point fingers at individual performances.
“You don’t blame one shot or one player. I never believed in blaming individuals and won’t start now.”
India’s Struggles Under Gambhir Continue
Since Gambhir took charge, India have lost 10 of their last 18 Tests, including a whitewash in New Zealand last year. Despite a revamped squad and infusion of new players, the outcome against South Africa remained unchanged.
The 42-year-old has faced criticism for frequent tactical changes and a shift towards all-rounders over traditional specialists — a strategy some believe is unsuitable for Test cricket.
“Test Cricket Needs Tough Characters”
Responding to concerns about player selection, Gambhir said Test cricket rewards grit, not flamboyance.
“You don’t need the most talented or flashy players. Test cricket is about tough characters with limited but disciplined skills.”
Gambhir Calls for Test Cricket to Be Prioritised in India
When asked how India can rebuild from this slump, Gambhir emphasised a nationwide commitment to restoring the importance of red-ball cricket.
“If India is serious about Test cricket, it must be prioritised at every level. It requires a collective effort — not just players or one individual.”
