India Next Test Coach Candidates: Top Contenders Listed
India’s latest Test debacle has pushed head coach Gautam Gambhir into a highly pressurised position. After suffering back-to-back home series whitewashes, concerns about India’s growing decline in red-ball cricket have intensified. South Africa’s crushing 408-run victory in Guwahati not only sealed a 0-2 defeat but also marked India’s heaviest Test loss by runs in history. This defeat extended India’s tally to five losses in their last seven home Tests, raising widespread alarm. So let’s who are the Top India Next Test Coach Candidates After Gambhir Era.
India’s Struggles Under Gambhir
Since Gambhir took over, India’s form has dipped sharply across conditions:
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A historic failure to win even a single Test in the New Zealand series
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A disappointing 1-3 loss in Australia
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A young Indian side fought hard for 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 slips to 5th in the World Test Championship table. Even Gambhir has acknowledged that “Indian cricket is bigger than any individual.”
With pressure mounting, the BCCI may soon consider alternatives. Here 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 Ever Had
Former captain Anil Kumble could emerge as a strong and unexpected contender. His previous stint (2016–17) delivered some of India’s best results in Test cricket:
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17 Tests: 12 wins, 1 loss, 4 draws
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Highest win ratio for any Indian Test coach with 15+ matches
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Led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final
Despite his success, his tenure ended abruptly after a well-publicised dispute with then-captain Virat Kohli. Kumble later said he had “no regrets” but wished for a smoother end.
Since then, he has coached in the IPL and remained active in various cricket roles. His tactical sharpness and ability to shape disciplined Test teams make him a realistic option if BCCI wants stability and experience.
2. VVS Laxman – India’s Most Reliable Interim Coach
VVS Laxman has quietly built an impressive coaching résumé. Currently heading the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (Centre of Excellence), he has been pivotal in developing India’s emerging talent.
Laxman has stepped in multiple times as interim head coach:
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India’s 2022 tours (Ireland T20Is, Asia Cup, NZ series)
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Asian Games 2023 – guided India to gold
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T20I series in Zimbabwe and South Africa (2024)
His interim record:
14 wins in 21 white-ball matches
He has also worked closely with India A and U19 pathways, making him a natural choice if BCCI prefers a smooth, internal transition.
3. Mahela Jayawardene – The Most Decorated Overseas Coach Available
If BCCI opts for an overseas expert again, Mahela Jayawardene will be among the favourites.
His coaching achievements include:
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3 IPL titles with Mumbai Indians (2017, 2019, 2020)
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Coaching roles with England, West Indies, and Sri Lanka
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Stints in top leagues such as BPL, The Hundred, and franchise T20 circuits
Jayawardene is known for his sharp tactical mind, ability to handle high-pressure environments, and remarkable communication skills. His proven success in Indian conditions, especially with MI, strengthens his case.
Conclusion: Will India See a Coaching Shake-Up?
With India undergoing a significant transition in Test cricket and results declining sharply, 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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