Gautam Gambhir's Test Coaching Report Card: Far From Impressive

The Indian team is currently trailing 1-2 in the ongoing five-match Test series against England. It has been nearly a year since Gautam Gambhir took charge as the head coach of the Indian team, but he is yet to make a strong mark in the Test format.

Gambhir's report card

So far, Team India has not delivered impressive performances under his leadership in red-ball cricket. Under Gambhir’s coaching, India has played 13 Test matches, out of which the team has lost 8, won 4, and 1 match ended in a draw.

One of the biggest setbacks came in the three-match Test series against New Zealand on home soil, where India suffered a 3-0 whitewash.

This unexpected defeat turned out to be a major blow, as it led to India’s failure to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025. These disappointing results have put Gambhir’s effectiveness as a coach in the Test format under serious scrutiny.

Fight for survival

With England leading the five-match series 2-1, all eyes now turn to the fourth Test between India and England, a must-win for the visitors to stay alive in the contest.

The match promises to be another gripping encounter as both teams have shown flashes of brilliance and vulnerability throughout the series.

India, led by Shubman Gill, will be under pressure after their narrow 22-run defeat at Lord’s. While Ravindra Jadeja stood tall with a valiant half-century, the team's top-order inconsistency and middle-order collapses remain a concern. The bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar, have shown fight but need greater support.

England, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their momentum. With Ben Stokes’ sharp captaincy, the pace duo of Jofra Archer and Chris Woakes, and contributions from the likes of Joe Root and Jamie Smith, the hosts look balanced and confident.

India may consider changes in the batting lineup, possibly bringing in fresh legs or shifting roles. 

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