Sunil Gavaskar criticizes India coaching staff as Rohit Sharma’s team fails to reach WTC final

Sunil Gavaskarthe former Indian cricket captain, has criticized the coaching staff led by Gautama Gambhir following India’s disappointing 3-1 series loss to Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series concluded with a six-wicket defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 5, marking a significant setback for Rohit Sharma’s India team, which not only lost the trophy but also failed to secure a place in the final of the World Test Championship.

Sunil Gavaskar harshly criticizes the Indian coaching staff

In an impassioned speech during a live broadcast on Star Sports, Gavaskar questioned the effectiveness of the technical team, which includes the batting coach. Abhishek Nayar and bowling coach Morne Morkel. He expressed his frustration by asking: “What was your coaching staff doing?” and highlighted the recurring problems faced by the Indian batsmen, particularly Kohli’s repeated dismissals outside off stump. Gavaskar noted that despite having opportunities to improve, the team’s performance did not reflect any progress.

Gavaskar’s comments were particularly pointed regarding the team’s batting failings, referencing India’s historic collapse by just 46 runs against New Zealand earlier in the series. He stated, “Our batting was not strong enough… Why can’t we see any improvement?” This criticism comes after Gambhir took over as head coach following India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he brought in his former IPL partners as part of the coaching staff.

“Should we change the coaching staff?”: Gavaskar

The legendary cricketer emphasized that while good bowling can challenge even the best batsmen, there were instances where Indian bowlers seemed to knock down their wickets against less formidable bowling attacks. He suggested that perhaps it is time to reconsider not only the players’ strategies but also the coaching staff itself ahead of India’s upcoming tour to England.

With this crucial series just a few months away, Gavaskar urged immediate action to be taken and both the technique and temperament of the players to be improved. He commented, “They may ask if we change the batting order; I will ask if we change the coaching staff?

#SunilGavaskar shares his candid thoughts on how the Indian coaching staff may have fallen short during the #FronteraGavaskarTrophy. 🇮🇳⚡#AUSvINDonStar #ToughestRivalry #AUSWIN pic.twitter.com/pHwnD3UyWR

– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 5, 2025

Gavaskar’s criticism reflects deep concerns about India’s current trajectory in Test cricket. As the team prepares for future challenges, including a major tour of England, it remains to be seen how they will address these issues and whether any changes will be made within the coaching structure.