Our Bureau
New Delhi
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed captain Shubman Gill and urged the team’s players to take greater responsibility, arguing that leadership and a new-look side need time to settle. Gambhir’s comments come amid scrutiny of India’s performances and questions over his approach since succeeding Rahul Dravid as head coach.
Gambhir has consistently defended Gill during his early stint as India’s Test captain, stressing that the 26-year-old remains a work in progress. He has also said he will support and protect Gill from external criticism while expecting the captain to remain transparent, honest and focused on the team.
The coach’s stance reflects his belief that players must eventually assume ownership of their performances and decisions rather than depend entirely on the coaching staff. His approach has included changes to India’s batting philosophy, particularly in Test cricket, with players encouraged to spend more time at the crease and build longer innings.
The shift appeared to benefit Gill and Rishabh Pant during the England Test series, while contributions from India’s lower order also improved. India accumulated 3,809 runs during the series, highlighting the impact of the revised approach.
Gambhir’s tenure, however, has faced scrutiny following a difficult transition period after the departures of several senior players. Former India opener Aakash Chopra had earlier argued that a coach should be assessed over a full year, particularly on how effectively he manages a transition and develops players.
Gambhir has maintained that Gill has handled the pressure well, but has also warned that the toughest tests of captaincy are still ahead. For India, the challenge now is to convert individual improvement into sustained team success while ensuring that players, coaches and leaders share responsibility for results.