According to former cricketer-turned-analyst Sanjay Manjrekar, Gautam Gambhir might need to "loosen up and take a chill pill." Despite some questionable tactical calls by the head coach, Manjrekar believes India achieved a commendable draw against England in the fourth Test. Manjrekar didn't hold back in stating that the former left-hander hasn't always been tactically sound in red-ball cricket. Although India fought valiantly for a draw on Sunday, they are still trailing 1-2 in the series with one match left to play.
"I think India has performed well despite some tactical decisions by Gambhir," Manjrekar said, referring to India's home losses to New Zealand and defeat by Australia. "The fighting spirit? That's all due to the players. Tactically, some of Gambhir's decisions, especially his selections, haven't made it easy," Manjrekar commented.
He also urged Gambhir not to perceive every differing opinion as mere criticism. Gambhir had previously retaliated against those critiquing skipper Shubman Gill, labeling them as lacking in cricketing knowledge. "There was never any uncertainty about Shubman Gill's potential. Doubts were baseless and revealed a lack of understanding in cricket," Gambhir stated. He emphasized the dressing room's confidence in Gill despite public skepticism. "Even if Gill hadn't performed, our belief in his talent remains unwavering," he added.
Manjrekar praised Gill, noting his captaincy responsibilities do not seem to burden him when he's batting. The veteran of 37 Tests, Manjrekar is known to be candid, often presenting views that deviate from mainstream opinions, which he did again during an appearance on 'JioHotstar'.
"Some questions clearly bother Gambhir, especially those questioning Gill's role as captain. These concerns are legitimate," Manjrekar stated. He noted the frequent reference to "outside noise," a term used within cricket circles for criticism from outside the dressing room. "It shouldn't be about 'us versus them'. We're all part of the same cricket community. A little relaxation, a willingness to accept tough questions, could benefit Gambhir," he suggested.
Addressing Gambhir's dismissal of Karun Nair's situation, Manjrekar opposed the coach's reasoning behind the player's omission from the team the claim that Nair wasn’t ‘dropped’ but rather the best eleven was selected. "Let's be honest - when someone doesn't play, he's dropped, no matter the reasoning presented," he concluded.
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