India vs Australia: Split Coaching in Consideration if Gautam Gambhir Flops in Border Gavaskar Trophy - Report

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If India endure a heavy defeat in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI may consider implementing a split coaching strategy to rejuvenate the team's approach and performance, reported Dainik Jagran.

This significant shift, under discussion at a recent six-hour BCCI review meeting, hinted at appointing separate head coaches for red and white-ball formats, with VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir emerging as primary candidates for Test and limited-overs formats, respectively.

The review also highlighted India's need to adapt more effectively to foreign pitches, especially the seaming and spinning challenges in Australia, which have historically tested Indian batters and bowlers alike. With India aiming to secure a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot, the tour's outcome may heavily influence the coaching direction.

The report also noted that while India's Test team has enjoyed success on domestic rank-turners favourable to spin, replicating this dominance overseas, particularly in high-stakes series, remains challenging. The BCCI now seeks a solution that prioritises consistency and adaptability across conditions.

Ajit Agarkar, chairman of selectors, led discussions that included board secretary Jay Shah and president Roger Binny. Together, they reviewed recent results, including disappointing overseas performances and player form, which have raised concerns about the existing coaching structure. Given Rahul Dravid's tenure nearing its end, the BCCI is looking to Laxman and Gambhir as potential successors, each specializing in formats that align with their experience and coaching strengths.

The report adds that Jasprit Bumrah's injury management was a focal point of the discussions, as the fast bowler's fitness remains crucial for India's plans in both Test and ODI formats. With Dravid and Gambhir reportedly involved remotely, both had the chance to present their insights, and Gambhir's recent assignments as a white-ball specialist coach add weight to the proposal of split coaching.

If Gambhir fails to deliver favorable results in Australia, Laxman may assume Test coaching duties, while Gambhir would focus on white-ball formats. Such a move would mirror the successful split-coaching models employed by other cricketing nations, potentially setting a new precedent for Indian cricket management.