Gautam Gambhir Takes Tough Stance on Team India’s Dressing Room Chaos

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has drawn a line in the sand following India’s crushing defeat in the Melbourne Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Addressing the team in the dressing room, Gambhir reportedly declared, “Bahut ho gaya” (I’ve had enough), criticizing players for prioritizing their “natural game” over team strategy.

Gambhir, who took over as coach in July 2024, admitted to giving players freedom over the last six months but has now vowed to enforce stricter team strategies. Players failing to align with the team’s objectives will face consequences, he warned.

The chaotic atmosphere in the dressing room, exacerbated by captaincy ambitions and underperforming senior players, has led to mounting tensions. Gambhir’s push for veteran Cheteshwar Pujara was overruled by selectors, while captain Rohit Sharma has struggled for form and leadership cohesion.

Amid criticism from cricketing voices like Sunil Gavaskar and questions over the support staff’s efficacy, Gambhir’s assertive approach may steady the ship in the short term. However, the team’s long-term success will require a balanced leadership strategy.