Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has stressed the importance of accountability and results within the team as they prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He said that series losses should not be celebrated and that testing players under pressure brings out their best.

Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has clarified his tough approach to the team as it prepares for the T20 World Cup, which will be held at home in 2026. He stressed that the team should no longer be filled with excuses, but rather be guided by accountability, honesty, and a focus on results.

No celebrations over series loss

After winning the T20 series against Australia, Gambhir gave a glimpse of his leadership style in an interview teaser released by the BCCI. Gambhir made it clear that he would not tolerate any complacency in the face of defeat. He stressed, "As a country and as individuals, we should never, ever celebrate series losses." He believes that players should value the ability to learn from difficulties, rather than making excuses.

Throw players into the deep sea

Speaking about player development and leadership, Gambhir believes that testing players under pressure brings out their best. He cited his decision to appoint Shubman Gill as Test captain. "Throw the players into the deep ocean, as easy as possible. We did the same with Shubman Gill when he was made Test captain," Gambhir said. Gambhir and his staff have emphasized on creating openness and honesty in the dressing room. "It has been a very transparent dressing room. It has been a very honest dressing room and we want the dressing room to remain like that," he said.

World Cup preparations continue

Regarding the 2026 T20 World Cup, Gambhir admitted that the team is still working on it. He said, "I think we are still not where we want to be at the time of the T20 World Cup." Gambhir also stressed the importance of fitness for the team, expressing hope that the team will be in its best form at the right time. Gambhir's message sets a direction for India's next stage, which should be driven by a hunger to win.

PC:NBT