Gautam Gambhir T20 World Cup performance could prove decisive for his future as India’s head coach, according to former India batter Manoj Tiwary. Tiwary believes the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may be forced to take a tough call if India fail to defend their T20 World Cup title on home soil.
While India have remained unbeaten in bilateral T20 series under Gambhir, pressure has mounted due to disappointing results in other formats. Since Gambhir took charge in July 2024, India have lost home Test series against New Zealand and South Africa, and were recently beaten by a depleted New Zealand side in a three-match ODI series.
According to Tiwary, the upcoming 20-team T20 World Cup, starting February 7, is crucial for Gambhir’s tenure. A poor campaign, he warned, could have serious consequences.
“If India doesn’t win the T20 World Cup, then I think the BCCI should take a big and difficult decision regarding Gautam Gambhir,” Tiwary said. “The BCCI secretary has said Gambhir will continue until his contract expires, but if results don’t come in the 2026 T20 World Cup, then the board will remove him and take a big call.”
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, Netherlands, and the USA. The hosts will begin their title defence against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7.
Tiwary Suggests VVS Laxman as Potential Successor
Tiwary also suggested that the BCCI should consider VVS Laxman as a potential replacement if Gambhir is removed in the future. Laxman has previously stepped in as head coach during tours when former coach Rahul Dravid was unavailable.
“I think it has to be a process-driven thing. When Rahul Dravid was the coach and didn’t go on certain tours, VVS Laxman used to go. So he was the natural choice,” Tiwary said.
Calling Laxman experienced and level-headed, Tiwary added that the former batter would be well-suited to lead the team. “He’s a good human being and has coaching experience. The BCCI should look to convince him.”
With expectations high and the tournament being played at home, the T20 World Cup could prove to be a defining chapter in Gautam Gambhir’s coaching career.