Gautam Gambhir Faces Growing Criticism Amid India’s Struggles: Sanjay Manjrekar Weighs In

New Delhi – The pressure is mounting on Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma following India's humiliating 0-3 series loss to New Zealand. The two have come under intense scrutiny from fans and former cricketers alike on social media. Many critics are suggesting that Gambhir and Rohit failed to inspire their players during the New Zealand series, with accusations that their leadership stifled the team's performance. As India gears up for an important and challenging tour of Australia, the duo's body language and response to criticism seem to have shifted noticeably.

Rising Tension: Gambhir’s Future as Coach Under the Microscope

Speculation is rife about the future of several key Indian players and coaches, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja. Rumors suggest that their performance on the Australian tour could determine their future in the squad. Meanwhile, there are also reports that Gambhir's position as the coach of India's red-ball cricket team could come under review, despite the pressure of such drastic decisions being made after just one series loss.

In the backdrop of these heightened tensions, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to find a suitable coach for the team. Former players are often reluctant to take up the role due to the intense scrutiny and the challenges of dealing with India's high-profile squad. This was witnessed during Greg Chappell’s tenure, where the strict discipline of a foreign coach clashed with the Indian players' expectations.

Sanjay Manjrekar Criticizes Gambhir’s Media Presence

Adding fuel to the fire, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has weighed in with his criticism of Gambhir. After watching the coach's recent press conference, Manjrekar took to social media to express his disapproval. "It might be better for BCCI not to send Gambhir for press conferences. His conduct and choice of words when speaking to the media are far from ideal," Manjrekar said. "Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar handle the media much better."

Manjrekar’s Comments Spark Backlash: Gambhir’s Record Questioned

While Manjrekar continues to take aim at Gambhir, some critics believe that the former commentator should reflect on his own record before criticizing others. Gambhir enjoyed a successful playing career, amassing 4154 runs in 58 Tests at an average of 41.96, including 9 centuries and 22 half-centuries. In 147 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he scored 5238 runs at an average of 39.68 with a strike rate of 85.25.

On the other hand, Manjrekar's own playing record is not as illustrious. In 37 Tests, he scored 2043 runs at an average of 37.14, including just four centuries. His ODI career includes only one century and 15 half-centuries in 74 matches, with several instances of him getting run out due to his poor running between the wickets.

A History of Controversial Remarks

Manjrekar has a history of making controversial statements that often land him in hot water. In 2020, his remarks led to his temporary removal from the BCCI's commentary panel. Despite his return to the commentary box, he has continued to spark debates with his opinions. In the past, he has made pointed remarks about cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Ravindra Jadeja, and even Jasprit Bumrah.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s Disdain for North Indian Cricketers

Manjrekar also recently made a disparaging comment about North Indian cricketers when discussing former Punjab cricketer Munish Bali. "Sorry, I didn’t recognize him. I don’t really focus on North Indian players," Manjrekar remarked, drawing criticism for his casual dismissal of players from the region.

Manjrekar’s Criticism of Jadeja and Others

The former batsman has often targeted Ravindra Jadeja, once calling him a "bit-part player" during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. Jadeja responded firmly, pointing out that he had played twice as many matches as Manjrekar and had achieved far more in his career.

Manjrekar has also targeted other players like Murali Vijay and even his fellow commentator Harsha Bhogle, criticizing them publicly for their views or performances. His habit of controversial statements continues to stir debates within the cricketing community.