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Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has launched a scathing attack on Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, calling him a "hypocrite" and questioning his suitability for the role. Tiwary’s remarks come after India's 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, which marked the team's first series defeat in the trophy in a decade.
Gambhir Under Fire
India's performance in the series has drawn sharp criticism from fans and experts alike. Sunil Gavaskar also questioned the coaching staff's role, suggesting they share accountability for the team's poor showing alongside the players.
Tiwary’s Criticism
Speaking to a local channel, Tiwary alleged that Gambhir’s actions do not align with his words:
“Gambhir is a hypocrite. What he says, he doesn’t practice. As a head coach, his choices for support staff are questionable. For example, bowling coach Morne Morkel and Abhishek Nayar are aligned with Gambhir from his IPL stints, ensuring they won’t challenge him.”
Tiwary further questioned Gambhir’s credentials for the national coaching role:
“Appointing someone as head coach based on IPL success is wrong. Gambhir lacks experience coaching players in formats like Test and ODI cricket. Results speak for themselves—he hasn’t built on Rahul Dravid’s good work.”
Advocates for Experienced Coaches
Tiwary suggested that experienced candidates like VVS Laxman and Sairaj Bahutule, both associated with the National Cricket Academy (NCA), would have been better choices:
“Laxman and Bahutule have been deeply involved in Indian cricket’s coaching ecosystem. Following the process used for Rahul Dravid’s appointment, one of them should have been chosen. Gambhir’s selection remains unclear, and the results are evident.”
Support for Gambhir
In contrast, Nitish Rana, who played under Gambhir at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), defended the coach. Taking to social media, Rana wrote:
“Criticism should be based on facts, not personal insecurities. Gautam bhaiya is the most selfless player I’ve ever seen, taking responsibility like no one else. Performance doesn’t need PR; trophies speak for themselves.”
The Debate Continues
As the Indian cricket fraternity debates the team’s coaching setup, Gambhir’s position faces increasing scrutiny. While some advocate for experienced hands like Laxman, others believe Gambhir deserves time to prove his mettle.
