Not VVS Laxman; Gautam Gambhir's best potential replacements as India Test coach

Anurag Dasgupta

Potential Gambhir replacement in Tests [Source: @RcbianOfficial/x.com] Potential Gambhir replacement in Tests [Source: @RcbianOfficial/x.com]

When Gautam Gambhir was appointed the Indian coach last year, there was a sense of optimism that he would take the team forward with his vision. Under his guidance, the white-ball team excelled and won the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup; however, the team regressed in red-ball cricket.

The Indian side was whitewashed twice at home - once against New Zealand and again against the reigning WTC champions, South Africa, this year. Moreover, the red-ball team was crushed by the Australian side, 3-1 as India’s Test team is yet to fully click under Gambhir’s regime.

Recently, reports circulated that BCCI has indirectly approached VVS Laxman to take over as the Test team coach, but the former cricketer rejected the proposal. However, it is to be considered that India does need a change in coaching setup in Tests, and if Laxman is not available, here are 4 alternative coaching options India should go after.

1) Chandrakant Pandit

Perhaps the most decorated Indian domestic coach, Chandrakant is a legend in the Indian circuit and has been a champion wherever he goes.

Under his guidance, Vidarbha won back-to-back Ranji Trophy titles in the 2018, 2019 seasons, and then he did the unthinkable with Madhya Pradesh, helping them clinch their maiden Ranji title in 2022. He then joined Kolkata Knight Riders, and the team won their third IPL championship in the 2024 edition.

Chandrakant Pandit knows the Indian domestic setup inside-out, and under his leadership, Team India can find hidden domestic gems to rebuild the crumbling Test squad.

2) Justin Langer

A proven winner with the Australian side, Justin Langer could be a smart option if the former Australian player decides to part ways with IPL side, LSG.

He was appointed the Australian coach after the 2018 Sandpaper scandal, and the former opener stabalised the team with his vision. In 2019, under his coaching, Australia retained the Ashes in England for the first time since 2001.

It was then followed by a 4-0 drubbing of England at home in the 2021-22 season. He left his position as Australian head coach in 2022, and Langer had a win percentage of 55.5 in Tests. Just like Australia, Team India also needs a rebuild, and Langer could do the repeat job.

3) Andy Flower

Wherever Andy Flower goes, a trophy follows, and it has been the routine across every T20 league. In 2025, RCB won their maiden IPL trophy, and guess who the head coach was? Andy Flower. He brings a calming approach to the dressing room.

He had previously coached England, and under his leadership, the team won the 2010 T20 World Cup, and also defeated the Aussies in the 2010-11 Ashes. If BCCI can somewhat convince Flower to step down as the RCB coach, and make him the Test head coach, things could get better for the Indian side, as the team needs someone who can stabilize the team after a couple of disastrous series.

Conclusion

After two series clean sweeps in Tests at home, the time has come for India to rejig their coaching department, and the BCCI actually has three quality options available in front of them. While Gambhir can continue to weave his magic in white-ball cricket, the team needs a visionary in Tests and the three mentioned names would do wonders for Team India.