Earlier in 2024, following Rahul Dravid's announcement that he would not be renewing his contract with the BCCI as head coach of the Indian cricket team, Gautam Gambhir emerged as the leading candidate for the position. This transition appeared appropriate, given Gambhir's recent success as a mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders, who secured an IPL title. However, as the former Indian opener faces the possibility of losing his role, reports have surfaced indicating that his appointment was merely a "compromise."

Speculation regarding Gambhir as Dravid's successor began to circulate prominently during the latter part of IPL 2024. There were few other viable candidates to challenge the former World Cup winner, despite Gambhir's lack of coaching experience. His only previous involvement in the IPL after retirement was as a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants.

Since his official appointment as head coach in July, Gambhir has encountered significant challenges. This includes a disappointing ODI series defeat in Sri Lanka and an unprecedented 0-3 home Test series loss to New Zealand. Currently, he is on the brink of experiencing a second consecutive Test series defeat, with India trailing 1-2 against Australia. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, is poised to relinquish the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in over a decade unless they manage to secure a draw in the final Test in Sydney later this week.

'Gambhir was never BCCI's first choice'

As time is of the essence for Gambhir, who has until the Champions Trophy in February to demonstrate his capabilities, a report from PTI has indicated that the former left-handed batter for India was not the primary choice of the BCCI to succeed Dravid. Initially, VVS Laxman, the head of the National Cricket Academy, was considered for the position, but he ultimately declined the offer. In fact, Gambhir was selected after several prominent overseas candidates also turned down the opportunity.

"He was never the first choice of the BCCI (that was VVS Laxman), and several notable overseas figures were unwilling to coach all three formats, making him a fallback option. Clearly, there were other factors at play as well," a senior BCCI official disclosed to PTI on the condition of anonymity.

Gambhir can only hope for a remarkable turnaround for India in the fifth Test match of the Border-Gavaskar series at the SCG, which could potentially extend his association with the Indian team until the conclusion of his contract in 2027.

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