Team India Coach Gambhir Emphasizes Collective Responsibility After Test Series Loss
Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has emphasized the collective responsibility of the team following their Test series loss against New Zealand. Gambhir acknowledged that the batters have faced challenges, but he refused to solely blame them for the defeat.
“Everyone has the responsibility,” Gambhir stated. “I cannot say just the batters have let us down.”
The Indian team has struggled with both swing and spin bowling, resulting in low team totals. However, Gambhir believes that the batters need to adapt to the demands of Test cricket.
“Test cricket should be played like Test cricket,” he said. “If we have to get 400 runs inside a day’s play, we should be able to get it.”
Gambhir also addressed concerns about the defensive technique of batters being affected by T20 cricket. He emphasized the importance of a strong defense, regardless of the format.
“The more T20 cricket is played, the more people will struggle in defending,” he said. “But the most successful players always had strong defense.”
Regarding the upcoming third Test in Mumbai, Gambhir ruled out adding any new players to the squad. He also expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back from the series loss.
“I am not going to sugarcoat that it is hurting,” he said. “It should hurt and that will make us better.”
Gambhir emphasized the need for empathy in working with players under pressure. He believes that supporting the players is crucial for their development.
“I realize it’s a complete different thing when you were playing and now as a coach, need to put your arm around the players,” he said.