Monty Panesar selects Gautam Gambhir as potential replacement as India's red-ball coach

previous England spinner Monty Panisa Important statement has been made Gautam Gambhir appointed as India head coachexpressing doubts about what the team sees as a lack of seriousness in his coaching approach. Panesar's comments come after disappointing performances by India in longer formats, including a 0-3 defeat at home to India New Zealand 1-3 defeat in the series Australia exist Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. His analysis drew attention to Gambill's ongoing efforts to establish authority and credibility in the eyes of his players.

Gautam Gambhir’s workload and transformation challenges

Panesa noted that despite Gambhir's transition from player to coach, it may be difficult for him to shoulder dual responsibilities across all formats. He believes Gambill's relationship with the senior players he has shared the locker room with adds an extra layer of difficulty in establishing his role as a leader. Additionally, Panesar also drew attention to Gambhir's poor performance in overseas Test cricket, particularly in Australia and England, which damaged his credibility as a tactical coach.

“I think the workload is probably too much for Gambhir. He's just transitioned into coaching. Sometimes, for some of the senior players, they actually think, 'Well, I was his teammate a few years ago and now He's telling us how to play cricket,” which can be difficult. That transition can be difficult,” The Times of India quoted Panesa as saying.

Panesa further highlighted Gambhir's struggles in performing in challenging conditions.

“He averaged 23 in Australia. His average in England wasn't good either. He didn't move the ball very well. I think the selectors will be thinking, 'Does Gambhir take this seriously as a coach? Or should we let him focus only on ODIs and T20Is? added the former left-arm spinner.

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Needing a more respected coaching figure: The choice of Monty Panissa

Given these challenges, Panesar recommends: VVS Laxman Might be better suited to the role of test coach. Laxman's career has been defined by his success in difficult conditions, including his outstanding performances in Australia and England. Panesar believes that Laxman, with his experience and ability to command respect, will bring much-needed authority to the Indian Test side.

“You need some kind of Indian legend who excels in all conditions as a coach because then you automatically get respect. If Laxman tells you, 'When the ball swings, you don't hit it up, 'You'll listen, right? Panesa emphasized.

Panesar also pointed out that Laxman and Rahul DravidWidely recognized for his success as a coach, he believes Laxman can bring similar technical acumen and tactical insight to the Indian team.

“He is very similar to Rahul Dravid. He has been successful in all conditions. Laxman can assist Gambhir as a batting coach or even take over the role of Test coach entirely. the 42-year-old said.

Gambhir has limited appeal to players

One of the key points Panesar raised was the seeming lack of trust and respect for Gambhir among current players. Unlike the likes of Laxman, whose stellar international career has earned him immense respect, Gambhir's transition into coaching has not yet garnered the same level of credibility. According to Panesar, this disparity may be a key reason why players cannot fully accept Gambhir's tactical advice.

“I'm not sure if they really took Gambhir seriously or they just said, 'Well, yes, we will listen to him, but we will play our natural game.' With Laxman, the players naturally Will listen to him because his records are great. Panesa concluded.

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