India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir finds himself under immense scrutiny as the team struggles in the ongoing third Test against Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy clash has exposed glaring weaknesses in India’s batting and bowling departments, adding pressure on Gambhir, whose tenure as head coach has already faced significant criticism.
India’s performance in the current Test has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding team selection and strategic decisions. Fans and experts alike have questioned Gambhir’s tactics as the team falters in crucial moments. The batting unit, expected to step up after a dominant Australian innings of 445 runs, has looked lacklustre and overly casual in approach, failing to withstand the relentless Australian attack.
Amid the chaos, Gambhir was spotted in an unusual moment of introspection during a rain delay on Day 3. Cameras caught the head coach shadow-batting in the dressing room, a gesture that drew mixed reactions from fans.
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While some viewed it as Gambhir’s attempt to mentally prepare his team, others mocked the gesture, questioning its effectiveness in addressing the team’s broader issues. India’s innings began disastrously, with Yashasvi Jaiswal dismissed in the very first over. Shubman Gill soon followed, falling victim to Mitchell Marsh’s brilliant catch.
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With two quick wickets down, Virat Kohli entered the fray, but his persistent weakness against deliveries outside off-stump led to yet another early dismissal. Kohli’s failure compounded India’s woes, leaving them teetering under immense pressure.
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The dismal start has reignited debates about India’s preparation and mental resilience under Gambhir’s leadership. Critics argue that the head coach has yet to instill the fighting spirit required to compete at the highest level. With the team on the back foot and the spotlight firmly on Gambhir, India must regroup quickly to salvage their position in this pivotal Test.