'BCCI will remove Gautam Gambhir if India doesn't win T20 World Cup': Head coach handed ultimate challenge

By Admin

28 Jan, 2026

Pressure Mounts on Gautam Gambhir Ahead of T20 World Cup
Former India batter Manoj Tiwary believes the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may be forced to take a tough and high-stakes decision if India fail to defend their T20 World Cup title at home. According to Tiwary, the future of head coach Gautam Gambhir could be on the line if the campaign does not go according to plan.

Mixed Results Under Gambhir’s Coaching Tenure
Since taking over as head coach in July 2024, Gambhir has overseen impressive performances in the T20 format. India remain unbeaten in bilateral T20 series under his leadership. However, the story has been very different in the other two formats. India have suffered two home Test series defeats against New Zealand and South Africa and recently lost a three-match ODI series to a depleted New Zealand side. These setbacks have significantly increased scrutiny on Gambhir’s overall coaching impact.

T20 World Cup: A Make-or-Break Tournament
With India hosting the T20 World Cup, expectations are sky-high. The tournament is viewed as crucial not only for the team but also for Gambhir’s future as head coach. Tiwary feels that continued struggles in Tests and ODIs mean Gambhir cannot afford a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, regardless of his unbeaten bilateral T20 record.

Manoj Tiwary’s Strong Warning to the BCCI
Tiwary, who has often been critical of Gambhir’s coaching methods, stated that the BCCI should not hesitate to act if results do not come. He pointed out that while the BCCI secretary has publicly backed Gambhir until the end of his contract, a poor showing in the 2026 T20 World Cup could force the board’s hand. In his view, failure to win the title should prompt a “big and difficult decision” from Indian cricket’s governing body.

India’s Group and Tournament Opener
India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, Netherlands, and the USA. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the hosts will begin their title defence on February 7 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, facing the USA in the opening match. A strong start will be vital to set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

BCCI Should Convince VVS Laxman, Says Tiwary
Looking ahead, Tiwary suggested that if Gambhir is removed, the BCCI should consider VVS Laxman as a potential successor. He highlighted that during Rahul Dravid’s tenure, Laxman frequently stepped in to coach the senior men’s team when required, making him a natural and experienced option.

Experience and Stability the Key Factors
According to Tiwary, Laxman’s calm temperament, coaching experience, and deep understanding of Indian cricket make him an ideal candidate. He believes the appointment process should be structured and long-term, with the BCCI convincing Laxman to take charge if the situation demands a change at the top.

Conclusion
As the T20 World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Gautam Gambhir and Team India. With home conditions, high expectations, and mounting pressure from recent red-ball and ODI failures, the tournament could define Gambhir’s coaching legacy. A title win may silence critics, but anything less could trigger a major shake-up in Indian cricket’s coaching setup.