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Ex England Spin Monty Panzer He made a big statement about it Gautam Gambhir’s role as India’s head coachExpressing doubts about the team’s seriousness in his coaching methods. Pansar’s comments came after India’s dismal performance in the longest form of the game, which included a 0-3 whitewash at home. New Zealand And 1-3 series defeat to Australia in the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. His analysis draws attention to Gambhir’s struggle to establish authority and credibility with the players.
Gautam Gambhir’s workload and transition challenges
Panesar pointed out that Gambhir may be struggling to manage the dual responsibility across formats despite his transition from player to coach. He believed that his relationship with Gambhir’s players, who once shared the dressing room with him, would create further difficulties in asserting his leadership role. Panesar also noted Gambhir’s impressive results in Test cricket overseas, particularly in Australia and England, which earned him confidence as a tactical coach.
“I think maybe the workload is too much for Gambhir. He has now turned into a coach. Sometimes you might think to some senior players, ‘Well, I was his teammate a few years back, now he’s telling us how to play cricket’. It can be difficult, that transition,” The Times of India reported, citing Panesar.
Panesar emphasizes Gambhir’s struggle in difficult situations.
“The average in Australia is 23. Nor is the average good in England. A moving ball was not played well. The selectors asked, ‘Is Gambhir taking him seriously as a coach or should we just focus on ODIs and T20Is?’ I think they think so. The previous left arm rotation was added.
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A more respected coach is needed: Monty Pansar’s choice
Keeping these challenges in mind, Panesar proposed this Pipe Laxman He might be a better fit for a test coaching role. Laxman’s career is characterized by his success under difficult circumstances, including his outstanding performances in Australia and England. Panesar believes that Laxman, with his experience and ability to command with respect, will bring much-needed authority to the Indian Test side.
“To come in as a coach, you need some sort of Indian legend who has done well in all situations because you naturally command that respect. You’d hear Laxman say, ‘You don’t play up when you’re swinging the ball,’ right?” Panesar emphasized.
Panesar also noted Laxman’s resemblance. Rahul DravidHis coaching success has been widely acknowledged and Laxman believes he can bring the same technical expertise and tactical understanding to the Indian set-up.
“He resembles Rahul Dravid. It was successful in all cases. Laxman may come in as batting coach to assist Gambhir or take over the Test coaching role entirely. said the 42-year-old.
Gambhir’s limited appeal to players
One of the critical points raised by Panesar is Gambhir’s lack of trust and respect among the current players. Gambhir’s transition to coaching has not yet gained as much credibility as Laxman, who has earned him so much respect with his brilliant international career. According to Panesar, this gap could be the key reason why players are not fully engaging with Gambhir’s tactical advice.
“I’m not sure if they’re taking Gambhir seriously or saying, ‘OK, yes, we’ll listen to him, but we’ll play our natural game.'” With Laxman, the players naturally listen because of his impressive record. Panesar concluded his speech.
