India Next Test Coach Candidates: Top Candidates Listed
India’s latest Test debacle has put pressure on the head coach Gautam Gambhir in a very pressurized position. After suffering several home series losses, concerns have increased over the growing decline of red-ball cricket in India. South Africa’s crushing 408-run win in Guwahati not only sealed a 0-2 defeat but also marked India’s heaviest Test loss by runs in history. The defeat took India’s total to five defeats in their last seven home Tests, causing widespread alarm. So let’s see who are the best India Next Test Coach candidates after the Gambhir era.
India’s struggle under Gambhir
Since Gambhir took over, India’s form has plummeted under all circumstances:
A historic failure to win even one Test in the New Zealand series
A disappointing 1-3 defeat in Australia
A young Indian side fought hard to earn a 2-2 draw in England, but instability remains
Repeated batting collapses, questionable team selections and frequent tactical errors have led to calls for a specialist red-ball coach as India slip to fifth in the World Test Championship rankings. Even Gambhir has acknowledged that “Indian cricket is bigger than any individual.”
With pressure mounting the BCCI may soon consider alternatives. These are the top candidates who could replace him.
Potential candidates to replace Gautam Gambhir as India’s Test coach
1. Anil Kumble – The most successful Test coach India has ever had
Former captain Anil Kumble could emerge as a strong and unexpected contender. His previous spell (2016–17) produced some of India’s best results in Test cricket:
17 tests: 12 wins, 1 loss, 4 draws
Highest win ratio for any Indian Test coach with more than 15 matches
Led India to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy
Despite his success, his tenure ended abruptly after a highly publicized dispute with then captain Virat Kohli. Kumble later said he had “no regrets” but wished for a smoother ending.
He has since coached in the IPL and has remained active in various cricketing roles. His tactical acuity and ability to shape disciplined Test teams make him a realistic option if BCCI wants stability and experience.
2. VVS Laxman – India’s most trusted interim coach
VVS Laxman has quietly built an impressive coaching resume. He currently heads the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (Centre of Excellence) and has played a crucial role in developing India’s emerging talent.
Laxman has stepped in as interim head coach several times:
India’s 2022 Tours (Ireland T20Is, Asia Cup, NZ Series)
Asian Games 2023 – Led India to gold
T20I series in Zimbabwe and South Africa (2024)
His interim record:
14 wins in 21 white-ball matches
He has also worked closely with the India A and U19 ranks, making him a natural choice if BCCI prefers a smooth, internal transition.
3. Mahela Jayawardene – The most decorated foreign carriage available
If BCCI opts for a foreign expert again, Mahela Jayawardene will be among the favourites.
His coaching achievements include:
3 IPL titles with Mumbai Indians (2017, 2019, 2020)
Coaching roles with England, West Indies and Sri Lanka
Stints in top leagues such as BPL, The Hundred and franchise T20 circuits
Jayawardene is known for his sharp tactical mind, his ability to handle high pressure and his remarkable communication skills. His proven success under Indian conditions, especially at MI, strengthens his case.
Conclusion: Will India see a coaching shake-up?
With India going through a major transition in Test cricket and results falling sharply, the pressure on Gambhir is at an all-time high. If the BCCI decides to make a change, Anil Kumble, VVS Laxman and Mahela Jayawardene stand out as the most credible contenders.
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