India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign has hit a rough patch following their Boxing Day Test defeat to Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The loss, marked by a dramatic collapse in the final session of day five, has reportedly created a tense atmosphere in the Indian dressing room.
According to a report by The Indian Express, head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed frustration after India conceded seven wickets for just 34 runs, resulting in a disheartening defeat. Gambhir reportedly addressed the team in no uncertain terms, saying, “Bahut ho gaya (I’ve had enough).”
The report suggests that Gambhir, who took over as head coach on July 9, criticized the players for their inconsistent performances. Having allowed them the freedom to play their own way for the past six months, he has now signaled a change in approach.
Emphasizing a more disciplined strategy, Gambhir reportedly warned the team that players failing to adhere to the predetermined game plan might face exclusion.
Pujara’s Exclusion Sparks Debate
Adding to the controversy, another Indian Express report revealed that Gambhir had lobbied for veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara’s inclusion in the squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy but was overruled by the selectors.
Pujara, a key figure in India’s previous successes in Australia, has an impressive record Down Under, scoring 993 runs in 11 matches at an average of 47.28. Pujara was instrumental in India’s victories during the last two tours, often blunting the Australian attack and providing a solid platform for the middle order.
Despite his past contributions, Pujara has been out of favour since the ICC World Test Championship final in 2023, where his form dipped significantly. However, his recent domestic performances, including a double century in the Ranji Trophy for Saurashtra, had reignited calls for his return.
Gambhir reportedly reiterated Pujara’s value even after the Perth Test earlier in the series, asserting that his experience and temperament could have steadied India’s faltering batting lineup. However, the selectors chose to persist with a younger squad, leaving Pujara out of the plans.
India’s loss at the MCG has tilted the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in favour of Australia, intensifying scrutiny on the team’s strategies and selections. With Gambhir’s reported ultimatum, the team now faces the challenge of regrouping and delivering under a stricter framework.
As the series progresses, questions linger over whether Gambhir’s tough-love approach will inspire a turnaround or create further divisions. Meanwhile, Pujara’s exclusion continues to spark debate, with fans and analysts questioning whether India has undervalued one of its most dependable Test performers in recent history.
