The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly displeased with head coach Gautam Gambhir following his strong remarks about the Kolkata pitch after India’s 30-run defeat to South Africa in the first Test at Eden Gardens from November 14 to 16. According to a Hindustan Times report, the board did not appreciate Gambhir publicly defending the pitch conditions after such a disappointing performance.
While no immediate action is expected, Gambhir’s long-term position could depend heavily on India’s results in the 2026 T20 World Cup, scheduled from February 7 to March 8. As per the report, the BCCI is reluctant to make an abrupt move due to a lack of strong alternatives for the head coach role.
However, officials are expected to review Gambhir’s role more critically later this year. A poor showing in the T20 World Cup at home could potentially put his tenure at risk. Gautam Gambhir, however, stood firm on his stance when questioned about the Kolkata surface after India failed to chase a modest target of 124. He reiterated that the Eden Gardens pitch was precisely what the team had demanded.
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“This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. The curator was very, very helpful and supportive. This is exactly what we wanted, and this is exactly what we got. When you don’t play well, this is what happens,” Gautam Gambhir said after the defeat.
BCCI Unhappy With Gautam Gambhir’s Press Conference Remarks: Report https://t.co/5gjuNMgjG5 pic.twitter.com/BpxPqoUpjN
— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) November 28, 2025
He further clarified that while the wicket wasn’t ideal for flamboyant stroke-making, it was still a fair pitch for disciplined batting.
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“It might not be a wicket where you can play big shots easily, but if you put your head down, you can definitely score. There were no demons in this wicket. It was not unplayable. It was a wicket that tested technique, mental toughness, and temperament. You need to know how to play turn. This is what we asked for, and this is what we got,” he added.
Gambhir’s remarks have sparked fresh debate around pitch preparation, responsibility, and India’s inconsistent red-ball form under his tenure.
