Is everything really fine between Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill? A sharp comment from Sunil Gavaskar has fans and experts wondering if there’s some behind-the-scenes tension brewing over selection calls.

The legendary cricketer didn’t hold back while sharing his thoughts on India’s leadership during the ongoing 4th Test against England at Manchester.
“It’s difficult for me to get my head around this captain-coach combination,” Gavaskar said on air.
“He’s the captain… It’s got to be his call, really.”
While Gavaskar didn’t directly accuse anyone, his words left a clear message: the captain should have the final say when it comes to team selection and on-field tactics. And if that’s not happening, something’s off.
Fans on social media were quick to point out the possible underlying message—that maybe Gambhir is too involved in selection, or that Gill isn’t being given the freedom to lead the way he wants.
The comment came amid India’s tough position in the 4th Test, where they conceded a massive 669 runs to England in the first innings. Strategic blunders, questionable selections, and lack of sharp bowling combinations have all raised eyebrows.
In Shorts:
- The omission of Kuldeep Yadav despite spin-friendly conditions
- The delayed use of Washington Sundar, who struck twice but came on very late
- The inclusion of players that seemed to lack role clarity
All these decisions have left people wondering: who’s really calling the shots?
Even former cricketers like Navjot Singh Sidhu weighed in:
“Teams win because of smart combinations, not just individual brilliance. Right now, India seems out of sync.”
India’s Current Situation (After Day 4)
Stat | Details |
---|---|
England 1st Innings | 669 all out |
India’s First Innings Deficit | 311 runs |
India at Stumps (Day 4) | 174/2 – Gill (78*), KL Rahul (87*) steady |
When the captain and coach aren’t aligned, it affects everything—from tactics to team morale. Gavaskar’s comments suggest that the communication between Gill and Gambhir needs serious attention.
Young captains like Gill need guidance, not interference, and if the coach is overshadowing leadership decisions, it may explain the inconsistency India has shown during this series.