Reports have surfaced suggesting a rift between India head coach Gautam Gambhir and the BCCI selection committee, as Gambhir allegedly pushed hard for the inclusion of veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the squad for the ongoing Australia tour. Despite his efforts, the selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, did not heed his recommendation, leading to growing tensions within the Indian cricket camp.
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Gambhir’s Push for Pujara
According to The Indian Express, Gambhir repeatedly advocated for the 36-year-old Test specialist, citing his pivotal contributions to India’s previous successes in Australia.
Pujara, who averages 43.60 across 103 Test matches, was instrumental in India’s historic 2018-19 and 2020-21 series victories in Australia.
Despite his experience and proven ability to counter the Australian bowling attack, Pujara has been out of the Indian squad since the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023.
Gambhir’s calls for Pujara’s return came before the first Test in Perth, even after India’s win in the series opener, showcasing his unwavering belief in Pujara’s abilities.
India’s Struggles with the Top Order
India’s top-order inconsistencies have been a concern throughout the series, amplifying Gambhir’s frustration. Even Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood acknowledged relief over Pujara’s absence, hinting at the batter’s reputation as a resolute anchor in challenging conditions.
Gautam Gambhir Advocates for Cheteshwar Pujara’s Return for Australia Tour: Selection Debates Intensify.
Rift in the Indian Camp
The tensions reportedly extend beyond Pujara’s exclusion:
Gambhir has had disagreements with the selectors and the captain over the playing XI, particularly regarding the inclusion of Harshit Rana and Washington Sundar.
He has also expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s inability to execute strategies on the field, especially after the dramatic Day 5 loss in the fourth Test at Melbourne.
A Divided Dressing Room
The atmosphere within the Indian dressing room has reportedly been divided, with unrest over team selections and strategies. While Gambhir has been vocal about his vision for the team, his approach appears to be at odds with other decision-makers.
The Road Ahead
Gambhir’s call for Pujara’s return highlights a broader issue of balancing experience and fresh talent in India’s Test squad. With India trailing in the series and top-order vulnerabilities exposed, the debate over team selection continues to dominate discussions both within and outside the cricketing fraternity.
