3 Key Takeaways From The First ODI Series Of Gautam Gambhir Era

Rohit Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in a discussion during the ODI series [X]Rohit Kohli and Gautam Gambhir in a discussion during the ODI series [X]

Rahul Dravid stepped down the post of Indian head coach after India won the T20 World Cup 2024. Gautam Gambhir succeeded him to this role. The start was a brilliant one for GG as India whitewashed Sri Lanka on their home turf in the T20I series. However, the ODI series turned out to be a set back for the former World Cup winner as the Indian team were defeated by a 2-0 margin. 

Although, this might be a set back in the preparations of India for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, there are some holes that India will look to mend immediately  after the series. In this article, we will take a look at the three key take aways from the first ODI series of Gautam Gambhir as the Head Coach of India. 


1.The drop in momentum and intent after Rohit Sharma's wicket

Throughout the three match ODI series, Rohit Sharma came out with a positive intent and set the stage for his team. However, in all three games, the middle-order of India failed to capitalise on the start that Rohit Sharma gave them. While Rohit had a strike rate of over 140, the next best strike rate was that of 115 by Riyan Parag, who played only in one game. 

This gives us the idea that the Indian team is missing intent after the dismissal of Rohit Sharma. This can be a serious concern in crucial games as the lack on intent at that stage is changing the complexion of the match and handing over the momentum to the opposition. 

2. The lack of cutting edge in the bowling attack

While the Indian batting was a disappointment in the series, the bowling also fell short of the job in hand. Experienced campaigners like Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel seemed to lack the cutting edge. The whole unit failed to come up with the goods when the team needed it most from them. It will be important for the management to address this issue as quickly as possible as this will play a huge role in crucial games of the multi nation tournaments.


3. Inability to play quality spin

The most glaring problem for the Indian team was the failure of the Indian batters when the ball was turning. In each of the three match, we saw that even after a good start given by Rohit Sharma, the Indian batters struggled when the pitch offered a bit of grip and assistance to the spinners. The failure of the Indian middle-order against quality spinners is quite concerning and this could be a weakness that the other teams will look to exploit during the Champions Trophy 2025, which will be played in the subcontinent.