Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @gautamgambhir55
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra dismissed the rumour on Sunday that the BCCI might implement split coaching for the team if they fail to perform well in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy under current all-format head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Gambhir came under heavy criticism after India’s unexpected 0-3 whitewash at home by New Zealand in a Test series, marking the first time India was whitewashed in a three-match (or more) home series. This was also Gambhir’s second series defeat since taking over as coach in July, following a 0-2 loss in an ODI series in Sri Lanka.
After the New Zealand defeat, reports suggested that Gambhir’s position as Test coach could be reconsidered if India does not perform well in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting November 22. The reports further indicated that the BCCI might consider appointing VVS Laxman, the current NCA head and stand-in coach for India’s T20I tour of South Africa, as the red-ball coach.
However, Aakash Chopra refuted these rumours, calling them “baseless” and claiming they were spread with “malicious intent.” On his YouTube channel, Chopra stated, “I feel it is an absolute rumour. This news seems absolutely baseless that if Team India doesn’t perform well in Border-Gavaskar Trophy, then change the coach. Have different coaches for different formats. I’d say it’s a little too soon. I see this rumour being floated around with malicious intent. Gambhir has just been made the head coach. It does not happen like this that if players are not performing, fire the coach. This is not the way. I do not agree with this thinking at all. I am discarding this kind of report.”
Despite rejecting the rumour, Chopra emphasized the importance of accountability, noting that Gambhir had been given significant control over team decisions, including the selection of coaching staff and pitches for the New Zealand series. Chopra pointed out, “Whatever Gautam asked for, the BCCI gave him. Publicly, Gautam had said in the past that Team India should have Indian coaches but when he asked for Ryan ten Doeschate and Morne Morkel, the board agreed. When Gautam asked for senior players in Sri Lanka, the board said yes to it. Liberty was given in making pitches as well. When so much happens, then accountability is obvious.”
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
