BCCI Denies Speculations About Gautam Gambhir's Coaching Position

The BCCI has firmly denied rumors regarding a potential change in the head coach position for the Indian Test team, specifically addressing speculation about Gautam Gambhir's role. Vice President Rajeev Shukla and Secretary Devjeet Sakiya clarified that there are no plans to replace Gambhir, despite recent disappointing performances. The Indian team is now focusing on defending their T20 World Cup title, with a new squad set to compete in the upcoming tournament. This article delves into the BCCI's official stance and the implications of recent losses on India's cricketing future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 29, 2025, 17:38 IST

BCCI's Clear Stance on Coaching Rumors

Rajeev Shukla, the Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has dismissed rumors suggesting that the board is considering appointing a new head coach to replace Gautam Gambhir. Earlier reports indicated that former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman had been approached to take over as the next Test coach, following India's disappointing 0-2 defeat at home against South Africa under Gambhir's leadership. This loss marked India's second consecutive home defeat in two years, with the previous year witnessing a 0-3 loss to New Zealand under the same coach.

Impact of Recent Losses on India's Test Championship Aspirations

The recent defeat against New Zealand has significantly impacted India's chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final. Following this latest setback against the Proteas, the team may miss out on this prestigious Test championship based on future results. In response to the media speculation, BCCI Vice President Shukla confirmed that Gautam Gambhir will not be removed from his position as head coach of the Indian Test team.

BCCI Officials Address Media Speculations

Shukla clarified to a news outlet that he wanted to set the record straight regarding the ongoing speculation about Gambhir's role. BCCI Secretary Devjeet Sakiya also reiterated that there are no plans to replace Gambhir or appoint a new head coach for the Indian team. Previously, Sakiya had stated that there would be no changes in the leadership group for Test cricket.

He emphasized that the reports circulating are entirely false and based on conjecture, with some reputable news agencies also spreading this misinformation. Sakiya firmly stated that the BCCI categorically denies these claims, asserting that they are baseless and factually incorrect.

Upcoming Challenges for the Indian Team

Currently, India's primary focus is not on Test cricket but on defending the T20 World Cup trophy, which they won under Rohit Sharma's captaincy last year. The tournament is set to commence on February 7, with India fielding a new team led by Suryakumar Yadav. India will kick off their campaign in Mumbai on the same day against the USA and is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, the Netherlands, and the USA.