Tue Nov 05 12:13:37 UTC 2024: ## Gambhir’s Privilege Pulled After India’s Dismal Test Series Loss

Following India’s embarrassing 3-0 Test series loss at home to New Zealand, head coach Gautam Gambhir is facing the consequences. This defeat marked the first time India lost every Test match in a three-game series at home and their first series loss at home since 2012.

While Gambhir’s immediate future is unclear, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to revoke a privilege granted to him. During team selection for the upcoming Australian tour, Gambhir was allowed to attend selection meetings, a privilege denied to his predecessors Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid.

According to BCCI rules, coaches are not permitted to participate in selection discussions. However, an exception was made for Gambhir due to the importance of the Australian tour. The BCCI is now reconsidering this decision, suggesting Gambhir’s influence on team matters may be limited.

Despite the recent setbacks, Gambhir has received significant support from the BCCI since his appointment. He was given free rein to choose his support staff, recruiting several members from his previous roles with IPL franchises Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants.

Gambhir’s true test will be in Australia, where India is expected to win at least four Test matches to qualify for the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) final. Failure to achieve this target could result in an early end to his contract, which is currently valid until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

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