Gautam Gambhir flays public disclosure of dressing room discussions
PTC Web Desk: Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed displeasure over the public disclosure of discussions held in the team's dressing room. On Thursday, Gambhir stated that conversations between players and the coach should remain confined to the dressing room and not be leaked to the media. Addressing reports of tensions within the team, Gambhir dismissed them as baseless rumours.
This statement comes a day after reports suggested that Gautam Gambhir had reprimanded the players following the loss in the Melbourne Test. With the Sydney Test set to commence on January 3, Team India has an opportunity to draw the five-match series, which Australia currently leads 2-1.
Gambhir said, "All players are aware of the areas they need to work on. Our only discussion has been about how to win Test matches."
He stated that, "Arguments between players and the coach should remain within the dressing room. Honest individuals in the dressing room ensure the safety of Indian cricket."
He said only consistent performance could secure a player’s place in the dressing room.
Gambhir also confirmed that pacer Akash Deep has been sidelined due to a back injury, attributed to workload management after bowling 87.5 overs in two Test matches. The playing XI for the Sydney Test will be finalised after assessing the pitch conditions. It is speculated that either Harshit Rana or Prasidh Krishna will replace Akash Deep.
On the other hand, the Australian team has opted for Webster to replace Mitchell Marsh, who has been struggling with poor form. Webster is expected to strengthen the squad as Australia aims to secure the series.
The Sydney Test is crucial for both teams, with India fighting to level the series and Australia looking to clinch a decisive victory.
- With inputs from agencies
