The conversation around India’s new head coach has been louder than the results on the field, but Gautam Gambhir seems unfazed. After India sealed a confident 48-run win over New Zealand in the Nagpur T20I, Gambhir chose that moment to address the growing noise around his role and intentions as head coach.
In recent weeks, speculation has been swirling that Gambhir is favouring certain players while sidelining others. Some former cricketers and fans have gone as far as claiming that he is trying to push senior stars out of the team. The chatter has especially focused on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, with rumours gaining traction after both the legends announced their Test retirements last year, a decision that surprised many.
Gautam Gambhir responded to these claims on social media by sharing a post from Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who had met him ahead of the Nagpur match. Shashi Tharoor, a known cricket enthusiast, joked that coaching the Indian team might be the second toughest job in the country, just after that of the Indian Prime Minister. The remark reflected the intense scrutiny Gautam Gambhir has faced since taking charge.
Shashi Tharoor wrote, “In Nagpur, enjoyed a good &frank discussion with my old friend @GautamGambhir , the man with the hardest job in India after the PM’s! He is being second-guessed by millions daily but stays calm &walks on undaunted. A word of appreciation for his quiet determination and able leadership. Wishing him all success — starting today! #INDvNZT20”
Reacting to it, Gautam Gambhir suggested that the reality of how team selections work would eventually become clear. He hinted that a coach does not have unchecked power and once emotions settle, people will understand how decisions are actually made. He also said that he finds it strange to be portrayed as someone working against his own team, especially when the players involved are among the best in the country.
Here is what Gautam Gambhir wrote, “Thanks a lot Dr @ShashiTharoor! When the dust settles, truth & logic about a coach’s supposedly ‘unlimited authority’ will become clear. Till then I’m amused at being pitted against my own who are the very best!”
https://x.com/GautamGambhir/status/2014039384350232901
This is not the first time Gambhir has pushed back against criticism. Last year, after India suffered a shocking 0–2 home Test series loss to South Africa, he reminded critics of the team’s earlier successes under his watch, including title-winning runs in the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup.
For now, Gautam Gambhir appears focused on results, letting performances and time answer the questions being thrown his way.
