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The year 2025 has been a story of paradoxes for Team India under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. While the team lifted the Asia Cup in T20Is and the Champions Trophy in ODIs, their performances in Test cricket have been far from convincing, with losses in high-profile series against Australia and South Africa. Amid these mixed results, reports have emerged that the BCCI informally approached legendary batter VVS Laxman for the role of India’s head coach, particularly in the red-ball format, sparking intense debate within the cricketing fraternity.
India’s Paradoxical 2025
Gautam Gambhir took over as India’s head coach with high expectations, and his tenure has been marked by notable successes in limited-overs cricket. Under his guidance, India won the Asia Cup and the Champions Trophy, showcasing dominance in the white-ball formats. However, the Test team has struggled, suffering whitewashes at home against South Africa and New Zealand, and failing to replicate their ODI and T20I success in the longest format.
The contrasting results have led to growing scrutiny of Gambhir’s coaching methods, especially in Test cricket. Critics argue that India’s approach has become overly reliant on spin-friendly pitches, which backfired in the home series against South Africa, resulting in a 30-run loss in the first Test at Eden Gardens. The team’s inability to adapt to different conditions and the lack of consistent performances have further fueled calls for a change in leadership.
VVS Laxman Approach/sbkinews.in
BCCI’s Approach to VVS Laxman
In the wake of India’s disappointing Test results, the BCCI reportedly sounded out VVS Laxman to check his interest in coaching the red-ball team. Laxman, a former Indian batting legend and the current Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is widely respected for his cricketing acumen and leadership qualities.
However, sources within the BCCI have clarified that no formal discussions have taken place, and Gambhir remains the head coach for now. The approach to Laxman appears to be more of a contingency plan, given the lack of alternative options and the ongoing scrutiny of Gambhir’s tenure. Laxman himself is reportedly content with his role at the NCA and has not expressed a strong desire to take up the senior coaching position.
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Gambhir’s Strong Backing
Despite the criticism, Gambhir enjoys strong support within the BCCI’s corridors. His contract runs until the 2027 World Cup, and his successes in limited-overs cricket have provided him with a degree of insulation against calls for his removal. The BCCI is likely to wait for the T20 World Cup results before making any major decisions about the coaching setup.
Gambhir’s approach has also been defended by some former players and commentators, who argue that the team’s Test struggles are not solely due to coaching but also reflect broader issues within the squad and the need for more consistent performances from key players. The BCCI is expected to conduct a thorough review of India’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup before deciding on any changes to the coaching staff.
Laxman’s Legacy and Potential Impact
VVS Laxman’s legacy as a player and his experience at the NCA make him a strong candidate for the head coach role. His ability to mentor young talent and his deep understanding of the game are highly regarded. If Laxman were to take up the position, it could bring a fresh perspective to India’s Test team and help address some of the issues that have plagued their recent performances.
Laxman’s leadership at the NCA has been instrumental in developing the next generation of Indian cricketers, and his insights could be invaluable in shaping the team’s future. However, his current role and personal preferences suggest that any move to the senior coaching position would require careful consideration and negotiation.
VVS Laxman Approach/sbkinews.in
The Road Ahead
As India prepares for the T20 World Cup and the remaining Tests in the World Test Championship cycle, the coaching debate is likely to intensify. The BCCI’s informal approach to Laxman highlights the board’s awareness of the need for potential changes, but the final decision will depend on the team’s performance and the outcome of the T20 World Cup.
Gambhir’s future as head coach remains uncertain, but his strong backing within the BCCI and the lack of clear alternatives mean that any changes are unlikely to happen immediately. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of Indian cricket and the leadership that will guide the team through the next phase of international competition.
VVS Laxman Approach/sbkinews.in
Conclusion
The year 2025 has been a tale of mixed fortunes for Team India under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. While the team has excelled in limited-overs cricket, their Test performances have been a cause for concern, leading to speculation about a potential change in coaching staff. The BCCI’s informal approach to VVS Laxman reflects the board’s recognition of the need for potential changes, but the final decision will depend on the team’s performance and the outcome of the T20 World Cup. As Indian cricket looks to the future, the coaching debate will continue to shape the direction of the team and the legacy of its leaders.
