India’s Decline Under Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh Questions Team’s Direction

India’s disappointing cricketing run under head coach Gautam Gambhir has sparked critical conversations, with former spinner Harbhajan Singh voicing his concerns. Since Gambhir’s appointment, India has faced setbacks, including an ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, a Test whitewash against New Zealand, and a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

Speaking on a media platform, Harbhajan lamented India’s struggles, particularly the underperformance of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, whose form has fueled calls for their removal. Harbhajan, comparing this period to Rahul Dravid’s successful tenure, remarked:

Everything was fine till Rahul Dravid was there. India won the World Cup, and everything was fine. But what happened suddenly? In the past six months, we lost to Sri Lanka, a series whitewash against New Zealand, and now a 3-1 defeat in Australia. Everything seems to have fallen apart.

Pointing to India’s “superstar culture”, Harbhajan emphasized the need for merit-based selections. He added:

Every player has a reputation. If this is the thing, then add Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, or those who have been India’s biggest match-winners. BCCI and selectors should take hold. India should leave behind the superstar attitude. Abhimanyu Easwaran was taken on tour, but he didn’t play. He can become a player for India…….You should not pick players on reputation.

As selectors face mounting pressure, Harbhajan urged them to prioritize the team’s future over reputation. He said:

The ball is in the selectors’ court now. They have to decide.

India’s cricketing future hinges on strategic changes to regain its former dominance.