Gautam Gambhir Comments on Rishabh Pant's Vice-Captaincy and India's Test Strategy

In a recent statement, India's head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed Rishabh Pant's removal as vice-captain and emphasized the importance of player responsibility. He confirmed Sai Sudharsan's position at No.3 for the upcoming Test against Afghanistan and expressed optimism about India's chances in the World Test Championship despite recent setbacks. Gambhir's insights highlight the team's focus on performance and adaptability in challenging match situations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 13:41 IST

Gautam Gambhir's Insights on Rishabh Pant

Ahead of the first Test against Afghanistan scheduled for June 6 in Chandigarh, India's head coach Gautam Gambhir shared significant thoughts regarding Rishabh Pant. Recently, Pant was removed from his role as vice-captain, with KL Rahul stepping in as Shubman Gill's deputy. His performance in the IPL was underwhelming, accumulating only 312 runs across 14 matches. In the previous Test series against South Africa, he managed a mere 29 runs, averaging 12.25.

Gambhir commented on Pant's vice-captaincy removal, emphasizing that a player's primary duty is to contribute to the team's success, while leadership roles are secondary. He acknowledged Pant's aggressive batting style, which can sometimes lead to unfortunate dismissals. The coach expressed a desire for players to maintain their instincts while also being mindful of match situations. “The main responsibility is to play for India. Captaincy and vice-captaincy are just byproducts. We expect him to play his natural game, but adapting to the situation is crucial. The ultimate goal is to score runs and take wickets,” Gambhir stated.

Sai Sudharsan's Role in the Upcoming Match

Sai Sudharsan To Bat At No.3

In addition, Gambhir confirmed that Sai Sudharsan will take the No.3 batting position against Afghanistan. Although Sudharsan has played six matches at this position, he has yet to make a significant impact, scoring 302 runs in 11 innings with an average of 27, including two half-centuries. Despite calls for Devdutt Padikkal's inclusion due to his recent performances, Gambhir supported Sudharsan, asserting that he hasn't received a fair opportunity. “Honestly, Sai hasn’t had a fair chance. He has played only a few Test matches, starting his career in England, which is notoriously challenging. He has also performed exceptionally well in the IPL, and we need to give him a proper opportunity,” Gambhir remarked.

Gambhir's Optimism for India's World Test Championship Prospects

Gambhir Optimistic About India's WTC Chances

Gambhir also addressed India's prospects in the World Test Championship (WTC), noting that the team's recent defeat has impacted their standing. Following a series against England that ended in a 2-2 draw, India currently sits sixth in the rankings with a PCT of 48.15. “I remain very optimistic. As long as we have a chance to qualify for the WTC final, we will stay hopeful because we recognize the quality and talent within our squad,” Gambhir conveyed to reporters on Friday. “There’s no reason to doubt our ability to win the World Test Championship, and that belief is shared by everyone in the dressing room.”