In 2024, under the leadership of head coach. Gautama GambhirThe Indian cricket team faced a series of setbacks that were out of sync with its storied legacy in cricket. These challenges ranged from disappointing performances in key series to unexpected losses against lower-ranked teams, leaving fans and critics questioning the team’s preparation and strategy. Despite being led by Gambhir, known for his aggressive approach and tactical acumen, the team struggled to find consistency and cohesion on the field. The year was a rollercoaster, marked by flashes of brilliance overshadowed by frequent lapses, which exposed major gaps in execution and adaptability.
Among the most notable low points was the team’s disappointing performance in crucial matches that influenced its ranking in international competitions. Shocking defeats against lesser-liked opponents and repeated failures in high-pressure situations painted a bleak picture for a team once considered invincible in limited overs cricket. Fans who had high hopes of a resurgence under Gambhir were left disappointed as the year progressed without the expected turnaround. The stark contrast between the team’s potential and its actual performance made 2024 one of the most challenging years in recent memory for Indian cricket.
7 discouraging records India achieved under Gautam Gambhir
1. ODI series loss to Sri Lanka after 27 years
For the first time in almost three decades, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka on Sri Lankan soil. This was a significant drop, especially considering India’s dominance in bilateral series in recent years. In the series, which took place in July, India lost 2-0, a result that many fans and analysts found difficult to swallow given the team’s reputation.
2. No ODI wins in a calendar year: first time in 45 years
India went the entire 2024 without achieving a single ODI victory. This was an unprecedented situation for a team that has historically been a powerhouse in this format. The last time India had such a barren year was in 1979, which highlights the severity of this setback.
3. Cover-up of the Home Test series against New Zealand
Perhaps the most significant embarrassment was the 3-0 at home against New Zealand in October. This was the first time India had been swept in a test series at home since South Africa did so in 2000. The series was particularly shocking because India had been nearly unbeatable at home, making this loss an all-time low.
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4. Lower test total at home
During the Test series against New Zealand, India were bowled out for just 46 runs in the first innings of the opening Test in Bengaluru. This was the team’s lowest total for India in a home Test match, clearly illustrating the batting’s collapse under pressure.
5. First defeat at Chinnaswamy since 2005
That year, India lost crucial Test matches, including their first home loss to New Zealand since 1988 and their first Test loss at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru since 2005 against Pakistan. These defeats were not only due to defeat, but also to break long-standing invincibility records at home.
6. Decision making under scrutiny
Tactical decisions such as the choice of range changers for home Test matches were also questioned during Gambhir’s tenure, which backfired and led to batting collapses. His strategy and the team’s approach were closely scrutinized, especially after the New Zealand series, where some decisions in team selection and batting order were hotly debated.
7. Loss in Melbourne after 12 years
Despite starting the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia On a positive note (a win in the Perth Test), India lost subsequent matches, including the boxing day quizwho had not lost in Melbourne since 2012. This series further highlighted the team’s struggles under Gambhir.