New Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has candidly spoken about the constant pressure he faces in his role, emphasizing the relentless demand for results as the team prepares for their upcoming tour of England. Despite mixed outcomes since taking charge, Gambhir remains focused and determined to steer the team to success.
Since the start of his tenure, Gambhir’s coaching journey has seen its share of challenges, including an ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, a home Test series whitewash against New Zealand, and a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Although the team’s Champions Trophy win provided a morale boost, the spotlight now shifts to how Gambhir’s strategies unfold during the England tour.
“I am always under pressure irrespective of whether we got the results or not. If you had asked me this question after New Zealand (series), I would have said ‘yes, I am under pressure,’” Gambhir said at the pre-departure press conference. He added, “After Australia (tour), I would have said ‘yes, I am under pressure’. After the Champions Trophy, I am still under pressure because me being the coach, you always want the results.”
The retirement of key veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli last month has increased the coaching challenges. Gambhir now faces the responsibility of leading a team captained by Shubman Gill, while also managing the availability of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who may not feature in all Tests. Gambhir noted that Bumrah’s participation will depend on how the series unfolds.
“We want to discuss with him, and it depends on the series as well. A lot will depend on the results of the series as well, as to where it is heading. That is something which I am very well aware of as well,” Gambhir said.
He also highlighted the value of Karun Nair’s experience in County cricket and his current good form, including a double century for India A, which could prove advantageous during the English conditions.
India is set to play the first Test of the series against England at Leeds starting June 20, with all eyes on Gambhir and his team to deliver strong performances.
