Sunil Gavaskar Criticizes Indian Cricket Team After Loss to Australia, Questions Coaching Staff and Players’ Commitment
Sunil Gavaskar expressed his frustration and disappointment with the Indian cricket team following their 3-1 loss to Australia, which allowed the hosts to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years.
When questioned about India’s planning for the series, Gavaskar responded sarcastically, “What do we know about cricket? We don’t understand it. We just talk about it on TV for money. Who listens to us? People like Irfan (Pathan) and I speak on television, but there’s no reason anyone should listen to us. Let whatever we say just go over their heads. Whatever I say now, let it go in one ear and out the other.”
He also criticized the support staff of the Indian cricket team following their dismal performance on the tour of Australia. He questioned, “What was your coaching staff doing in Australia? Your bowling coach, your batting coach—especially the batting coach. Look at the way we were bowled out for 46 against New Zealand and how we were defeated in subsequent matches. There was no strength in our batting. Even here, our batting wasn’t strong enough. Questions need to be asked: What have you done? Why can’t we see any improvement?”
Gavaskar urged Indian batters to focus on improving their techniques in the Ranji Trophy, stressing that excuses should not prevent them from addressing the deficiencies that have caused their struggles in recent series against New Zealand and Australia.
“It’s concerning to see Indian batters continue to underperform, both against New Zealand at home and in the series against Australia,” Gavaskar said. “On January 23, the next round of the Ranji Trophy begins. Let’s see how many players from this squad participate. There should be no excuse for not playing.”
He added that those who do not participate in the domestic competition might face consequences, particularly from former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who could take tough decisions regarding their availability for the upcoming matches.
