Team India suffered a series of defeats in recent times, and as a result, head coach Gautam Gambhir faced criticism. Some sections even demanded his sacking. The BCCI, however, backed Gambhir.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, “The BCCI has full faith in the selectors, coaching team, head coach, and players. They always have our support. This is why they perform well. If they lose a match, criticism appears on social media, but we do not focus on it. This same Team India won the Champions Trophy, performed well in the Asia Cup, and tied the series in England.”
Team India batting coach Sitansh Kotak also supported Gambhir regarding the spin-pitch controversy. He said, “Gambhir accepts responsibility for not questioning the curators. Other teams play on pitches suited to them at home. Similarly, Team India prefers spin-friendly pitches. We aim for matches to last four to four and a half days. If the first two days favour fast bowlers, we ensure the pitch later supports spinners.”
Kotak also spoke about the problems Team India was having with its batting. "Everybody blames Gambhir. What about the batters? What more can the batting coach do? These points are often ignored. Some criticism may reflect personal agendas," he said.
Team India managed just 124 runs in the first innings and collapsed for 93 in the second innings of the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. South Africa thus won a Test match in India for the first time in nearly 15 years. Criticism mounted over the loss. Even his request for a spin-friendly pitch did not find allies. Not to mention, even the inclusion of six left-handed batsmen has proved contentious. There are already voices demanding Gambhir be axed as head coach.
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