Who can Replace Gautam Gambhir as Team India’s Head Coach?

Once again, Gautam Gambhir has lost a test match.

The once loudmouthed and arrogant commentator who infamously once said, “I don’t know what Ravi Shastri has achieved,” now learns that coaching in international cricket is not the same as the IPL.

India now stands at the brink of a 2-0 home whitewash in tests, just after a series loss against New Zealand last year.

India’s test record has not been the best since GG has taken over. Winning, drawing, and losing 2 each in the 6 series played under his helm.

When it comes to whiteball, he has been successful. He has also won the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup, but there is an argument to be made that he inherited a dominant team that reached the World Cup final in 2023 and won the T20 World Cup.

With questions growing, discussions rising, social media buzzing, and increasing online betting odds of him being sacked, everyone now seems to ask the same: Is it time for a new head coach, and if yes, who can replace Gautam Gambhir?

5 Potential Candidates to replace Gambhir as Team India Head Coach

1. VVS Laxman

VVS is known for his calm mindset, sharp game reading, and ability to nurture young talent. Many believe he has the leadership and tactical skills to take India forward.

He has stepped in as interim head coach several times. Currently, he leads the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

He also coached India in the T20I series against South Africa in 2024, helping the squad experiment with new combinations and young players.

2. Ravi Shastri

This is more of an interim option till a real full-time replacement is found.

Shastri remains a fan favorite because India’s Test revolution overseas happened under his leadership. His coaching tenure delivered 2 historic Test series wins in Australia (2018-19, 2020-21), strong wins in England, and an aggressive, fearless brand of cricket with Virat Kohli as his captain. He didn’t just coach but gave India a winning attitude abroad.

He understands team dynamics, has the cricketing acumen, and is the man fora  crisis.

3. MS Dhoni

Captain cool.

Fans have always seen his cricket brain, mentorship skills, and calm leadership, even during his playing days. His smart strategies and strong team coordination helped India win major ICC trophies: the T20 World Cup (2007), the ODI World Cup (2011), and the Champions Trophy (2013), making him the only captain to win all three.

He was also the mentor for India in the T20 World Cup 2021, and many players have shared how his guidance boosted their confidence. His success with CSK in IPL (5 titles) shows he knows how to build teams and handle pressure well.

As the sun sets on his playing career, is it time he starts his second innings as the head coach of the Indian cricket team in such tumultuous times?

4. Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly recently started his official coaching journey as the head coach of the SA20 team, Pretoria Capitals, for the 2026 season, his first full head coach role.

Before coaching, he played major team leadership and management roles. He served as team director for Delhi Capitals and director of cricket for JSW Sports, where he worked closely with player development and match strategy.

His experience as former BCCI President and Chairman of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee shows his strong understanding of the game, team planning, and leadership behavior.

And not to forget, he has not only been a revolutionary captain for India but an iconic player in his own right.

5. Ravichandran Ashwin

He can be a strong future coaching option because of his deep cricket knowledge and smart tactics. This can be seen in his YouTube videos, which provide a great view of how his mind works.

Players like Cheteshwar Pujara have publicly praised his coaching potential, his ability to read the game, and his ability to plan moves under pressure. Even in his playing career, fans saw him mentor bowlers, innovate strategies, and think ahead like a coach on the field.

Furthermore, he has played within this setup; he knows the team and most of the personnel with deep bonds with players.

Although some feel he may explore media or commentary work after retirement, his cricket mind and match awareness make him a name fans can trust for future team strategy and mentorship roles, including a possible success as an IPL coach.

Relevant news