India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has been at the center of debate for his preference for all-rounders over specialist bowlers across formats. His team selection strategy has seen players like Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh spend more time on the sidelines than many fans and experts believe they deserve.
Kuldeep, for instance, didn’t feature in a single Test during India’s recent tour of England and played only three of eight white-ball matches in Australia. The left-arm wristspinner was even released from the T20I squad after just two appearances.
Similarly, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, missed the first two games against Australia. The management instead chose Harshit Rana to add some batting depth — a decision that didn’t pay off. When Arshdeep returned to the playing XI, India won two of the next three games, with one match washed out due to rain.
Gambhir on Selection Criticism: “It’s the Toughest Part of My Job”
Addressing the growing criticism, Gambhir admitted that leaving deserving players out is one of the most challenging aspects of coaching.
“That’s the toughest part for me as a coach. When you know that there’s so much quality on the bench and everyone deserves a place in the XI, it becomes difficult. But ultimately, you can only pick the combination you think will do the job on that particular day,” Gambhir said in a BCCI video.
He emphasized the importance of honest communication with players.
“Those conversations are never easy. If you tell someone he’s not playing, it’s the toughest talk you can have as a coach. But if you’re honest and straightforward, players usually understand. We’ve built a very transparent, honest dressing room, and that’s what matters the most.”
Gambhir also urged critics to avoid speculating about internal team decisions, insisting that communication between a coach and player should remain private.
A Fluid Batting Order and Aggressive Mindset Define Gambhir’s India
Gambhir also spoke about his fluid batting-order philosophy, which he believes is essential for modern T20 cricket.
“Batting orders are overrated except for the openers,” he explained. “In T20 cricket, it’s not just about the number of runs but the impact. Every ball is an event, and we want players who can maximize impact in any situation.”
He added that India’s approach isn’t limited to aggressive batting — it extends to bowling as well. A major tactical shift has been the use of Jasprit Bumrah for three overs in the powerplay, highlighting India’s new all-round aggressive mindset.
“A lot of people associate us with aggressive batting, but using Jassi for three overs up front is just as aggressive. We want to be seen as an attacking side overall — not just with the bat.”
With this bold, flexible approach, Gambhir aims to keep India’s T20 strategy ahead of the curve as the format continues to evolve.
India now turns its attention to the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, starting November 14, followed by three ODIs and five T20Is.
