Recently, Virat Kohli’s elder brother, Vikas Kohli, expressed his concerns over Team India’s current approach in Test cricket. Taking to Threads, Vikas seemed to indirectly criticize the management, including the head coach Gautam Gambhir, as India is struggling in the ongoing second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. “This is what happens when u try to boss around and change things unnecessary which were not broken.”
Why is Vikas Kohli Criticizing Team Management?
Vikas’ comments speak of frustration at the changes brought in by the current management, which he claims has disrupted a system that was working well. India, having lost the first Test by 30 runs, are precariously placed at 27-2 in the second Test and need another 522 runs to draw level.
Vikas shared that India’s approach has changed from playing to win to just saving matches, even in home conditions. While not naming Gautam Gambhir directly, the reference did seem to be directed at the coach and the recent strategic changes.
How has Team India performed under Gautam Gambhir?
India’s Test form under Gambhir, meanwhile, has taken a marked dip. There have been more losses than wins on his watch, including some unexpected ones at home. The top six batsmen have averaged less than 30, and scores above 300 have often been out of reach.
This slump in form has coincided with the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, thus creating a big hole in the batting lineup.
What are the Implications for the current series against South Africa?
India have already lost the series opener and risk another series loss on their home soil. Indeed, Vikas’ post conveys the sentiment among fans and former players who blame unnecessary tinkering for such instability.
Past results, including a 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand at home and a 3-1 loss to Australia abroad, have shown how vulnerable the team is.
Will this lead to changes in the team?
Though the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the management have not reacted to Vikas’ remarks, such critiques often trigger debates related to coaching strategies and selection policies.
The pressure is mounting on Gambhir, captain Shubman Gill, and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav to go back to the drawing board ahead of India’s second successive series loss.
