India’s disappointing performance in the red-ball format is intensifying scrutiny on head coach Gautam Gambhir, following a five-wicket loss to England in the first Test at Headingley. Former opener and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra believes the mounting defeats are putting Gambhir under increasing pressure, particularly with India’s recent Test record offering little respite.
Despite promising starts from the top order, India’s lower-order batting crumbled in both innings, failing to post competitive totals. England capitalised on the opportunity, successfully chasing a challenging 371-run target in the final innings.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra pointed to a deeper structural issue in the Indian lineup.
“Our tail doesn’t bat and our top order doesn’t bowl,” he remarked. “I’m not saying you need a Jacques Kallis or someone bowling 15 overs a day. But having top-order batters who can contribute with the ball gives much-needed balance to the side.”
Citing South Africa’s recent World Test Championship approach, Chopra referenced Wiaan Mulder, a seam-bowling all-rounder who batted at No. 3, and Aiden Markram, who regularly chips in with the ball.
“Even if they’re not top-tier bowlers, at least they offer options. Unfortunately, that’s missing in our team,” Chopra said.
India had included Shardul Thakur at Headingley to address the balance issue, but the all-rounder had minimal impact with both bat and ball. While acknowledging Thakur’s previous contributions, Chopra underlined the broader concern with India’s recent form in Tests.
India have now won just one of their last nine Tests since the home series whitewash against New Zealand in November. Chopra highlighted Gambhir’s modest record as Test coach, with only three wins (two vs Bangladesh, one vs Australia) compared to seven defeats (three each to New Zealand and Australia, one to England).
“There is a lot of pressure on Gautam Gambhir. If results don’t improve in this England series, questions will be raised. The selectors have backed the team management completely. The players being asked for are being given. Now, the results must follow. No excuses,” Chopra stated bluntly.
The ongoing series — part of the newly introduced Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy — could prove decisive for Gambhir’s tenure. A poor outcome, Chopra warned, may force the selectors to re-evaluate the coaching setup.
In response to the criticism, Gambhir appeared resolute, standing by his youthful pace unit and dismissing the negativity.
“When we pick the squad, we pick it on trust, not on hope,” said Gambhir after the Headingley defeat. “These boys will deliver for us.”
India will look to bounce back in the second Test at Edgbaston, which begins on July 2.
