Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed support for current head coach Gautam Gambhir following India’s first-ever home Test series loss to New Zealand. After losing consecutive matches in Bengaluru and Pune, India surrendered the series, drawing criticism from fans towards the coaching staff and captain right before the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Despite the disappointing outcome, Shastri defended Gambhir, highlighting that he is still early in his coaching career with the national team. “New Zealand have beaten them (India) handsomely in both the Test matches. It’s food for thought (on series loss). He (Gambhir) has just taken over the job. It’s never easy being coach of a team that has such a big following. It’s still early days in his career as a coach. But he’ll soon learn,” Shastri remarked during commentary in the second Test in Pune.
This series marked the first time in 12 years that India lost a Test series at home. In the second Test, New Zealand scored 259 in their first innings and dismissed India for just 156, gaining a 103-run lead. Spinner Mitchell Santner, named Player of the Match, took seven wickets in the first innings. New Zealand then scored 255 in their second innings, setting India a target of 359.
While India began their chase positively, they faltered due to a batting collapse. Santner led the bowling attack again, claiming six wickets as India was bowled out for 245, losing the match by 113 runs and the series with one Test remaining.
Looking ahead, Gambhir and the team will now shift their focus to the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai for the third and final Test, aiming to finish the series on a high note.