BCCI Conducts 6-Hour Review Meeting With Gambhir, Rohit After NZ Whitewash: Report
Mumbai: Following India’s surprising 0-3 loss to New Zealand in their recent Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) organized a comprehensive review meeting to address critical issues related to team selection, coaching strategies, and on-field decisions. The six-hour meeting, aimed at diagnosing the setbacks of the series, included captain Rohit Sharma, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, and head coach Gautam Gambhir, who participated online. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah and President Roger Binny attended in person, reflecting the board’s commitment to “getting the team back on track” ahead of the upcoming tour of Australia.
Sources reveal that Gambhir’s coaching style was a key discussion point, given its notable departure from that of his predecessor, Rahul Dravid. While Gambhir’s approach is intended to foster a more dynamic playing style, the adjustment period has not been smooth for all players. It remains unclear whether Gambhir’s methods were directly questioned, but reports suggest that some members of the team management may have voiced concerns about the challenges associated with this transition.
Tactical decisions made during the New Zealand series also came under scrutiny. One focal point was the resting of vice-captain and star bowler Jasprit Bumrah for the third Test, a decision the BCCI wanted clarified given its high-stakes nature. Additionally, the selection of a rank-turner pitch for the Mumbai Test, after struggling on a similar surface in Pune, raised questions about the team’s strategy on home soil.
Selection decisions also became a matter of debate. The inclusion of T20 specialist all-rounder Nitish Reddy and rookie pacer Harshit Rana, both relatively inexperienced in the Ranji Trophy, sparked differing opinions within the meeting. A source remarked that these picks “have not been unanimous to say the least,” indicating potential differences among the selectors and team management on criteria for Test selection. Consequently, the BCCI has requested feedback on improving selection standards and ensuring alignment among decision-makers.
As the Indian squad prepares to depart for the Australia series in two groups on November 10 and 11, the BCCI has set clear expectations for corrective measures. With high stakes in play, the board has urged Gambhir, Rohit, and Agarkar to collaborate closely on strategies that will enable a stronger performance abroad.
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