former England Spinner Monty Panesar He made an important statement regarding Gautam Gambhir's role as India's head coachExpressing his doubts about the team's lack of seriousness regarding its training methods. Panesar's comments come after India's disappointing performance in the longer version of the match, which included a 0-3 win at home against… New Zealand And a 1-3 defeat in front of Australia in Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. His analysis draws attention to Gambhir's ongoing struggle to establish his authority and credibility in the eyes of players.
Gautam Gambhir's workload and transformation challenges
Panesar pointed out that Gambhir, despite his transition from player to coach, may face difficulties in managing the dual responsibility in all formats. He believed that Gambhir's relationship with the senior players, with whom he once shared the dressing room, added an additional layer of difficulty in asserting his role as a leader. Furthermore, Panesar drew attention to Gambhir's underwhelming record in Test cricket abroad, particularly in Australia and England, which hampered his credibility as a tactical coach.
“I think the workload is probably too much for Gambhir. He's just turned into a coach. Sometimes it can be difficult for some of the senior players who will actually think, 'Well, I was his teammate a few years ago, and now he's telling us how to play.' “Cricket. It can be difficult, this transition.” The Times of India quoted Panesar as saying.
Panesar also stressed Gambhir's struggle to perform in difficult conditions.
“The average age is 23 in Australia. He doesn't average well in England either. He didn't play the moving ball well. I think the selectors will think: 'Does Gambhir take it seriously as a coach, or should we make him focus only on ODIs and T20Is?' added the former left-arm spinner.
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The need for a more respected coaching figure: Monty Panesar's choice
Given these challenges, Panesar suggested this Laxman Plumbing Could be better suited to a test coaching role. Laxman's career has been marked by his success under difficult circumstances, including impressive performances in Australia and England. Panesar believed that Laxman, with his experience and ability to command respect, would bring much-needed authority to the Test side in India.
“You need some kind of Indian legend who has performed well in all conditions to take over as coach, because you naturally have that respect. If Laxman tells you: 'You won't play the ball over the top when you're swinging', you listen, don't you?” Panesar confirmed.
Panesar also pointed out Laxman's resemblance to Rahul Dravidwhose success as a coach has been widely recognized, believes Laxman can bring similar technical acumen and tactical insight to the India squad.
“He is similar to Rahul Dravid. He has been successful in all conditions. Laxman could be appointed as batting coach to assist Gambhir, or even take over the Test coaching role entirely. The 42-year-old stated.
Gambhir's limited appeal to players
One of the crucial points raised by Panesar is the lack of trust and respect that Gambhir seems to enjoy among current players. Unlike someone like Laxman, whose stellar international career has earned him huge respect, Gambhir's move into coaching is yet to gain the same level of credibility. According to Panesar, this gap could be a major reason why players do not fully engage with Gambhir's tactical advice.
“I'm not sure if they are taking Gambhir seriously or they are just saying: ‘Okay, yes, we will listen to him, but we will play our natural game.’” With Laxman, it is natural for the players to listen because of his great record. Panesar concluded.
