The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held a review meeting to address the India National Cricket Team’s recent poor performances. The meeting was attended by the BCCI’s governing body, selectors, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma.
This review followed India’s disappointing performance after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The team lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka for the first time in 27 years, suffered a 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand, and was defeated 3-1 by Australia, missing out on a place in the ICC World Test Championship final.
According to a report in Dainik Jagran, Gambhir and his coaching staff were questioned during the meeting about the team’s struggles in ODIs and Tests. A BCCI official revealed that, unexpectedly, the team management blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the national team’s decline.
One member of Gambhir’s staff reportedly claimed that large IPL contracts are a key factor, as some players prioritize the league over giving their full effort in Tests. It was also stated that players lacked intensity and commitment during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, contributing to the team’s defeat.
Under head coach Gautam Gambhir, the Indian team has excelled in T20Is but has struggled significantly in ODIs and Test cricket. The batting lineup, in particular, has been underwhelming in the last two Test series, both at home and in Australia, while bowlers have received little support from the batters.
Reports suggest that the futures of Gautam Gambhir as head coach and Rohit Sharma as captain will be evaluated after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Their performance in the tournament will determine whether changes to the leadership setup are made.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to begin on February 19, with the Indian team playing its matches in the UAE. India will open its campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
