Is Test Cricket Better Served by Specialists than Part-Time All-Rounders? Manoj Tiwary Challenges Gautam Gambhir’s Strategy
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Synopsis
In a bold assertion, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary critiques Gautam Gambhir's coaching strategy, emphasizing the need for specialist players in Test cricket. As India struggles in the ongoing series against England, Tiwary highlights the drawbacks of prioritizing all-rounders over seasoned specialists, calling for stability and trust in player selection.
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Tiwary questions the reliance on all-rounders in Test cricket.
- India's Test ranking has declined from No.1 to No.4 under Gambhir's leadership.
- Stability in player selection is crucial for long-term success.
- Kuldeep Yadav should have been included for his effectiveness against England.
- The need for specialists in the longest format of the game is emphasized.
Kolkata, July 25 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has voiced strong concerns regarding Gautam Gambhir’s tactics and his selection criteria in the realm of red-ball cricket as India competes against England in the ongoing fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Old Trafford.
India's recent 22-run defeat to England at Lord's has put them at a disadvantage, trailing 1-2 in the current Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The Indian team, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, battled fiercely yet stumbled on the final day for the second time this series, despite commendable performances from Ravindra Jadeja.
This loss has resulted in Gambhir's record as India's head coach across all formats standing at 13 matches, with merely four victories, eight losses, and one draw. Since he took the helm in July 2024, India's Test ranking has plummeted from No.1 to No.4, and they were unable to secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final following a disappointing series defeat in Australia.
Tiwary has criticized Gambhir's inclination toward all-rounders at the expense of specialist players, arguing that this strategy is ill-suited for the longest format of the game.
“I've previously mentioned that Test cricket is fundamentally a game for specialists, yet we are sidelining them in favor of all-rounders,” Tiwary stated to IANS. “Since the arrival of the head coach (Gautam Gambhir), there has been a consistent pattern of excluding underperforming players from the squad and incorporating new players. We witnessed this in the India-New Zealand series when we opted for Washington Sundar over Ravichandran Ashwin, who was already in the squad. During the Australia tour, we fielded Devdutt Padikkal and Harshit Rana, and now Harshit is no longer favored as we have Anshul Kamboj in this Test match.”
The former Indian batter underscored the necessity of supporting players for extended periods instead of frequently altering the squad.
“There is a lack of stability, and he is unable to place long-term trust in his players. Relying on part-time all-rounders for Test match victories is unrealistic. Those of us who have played for an extended period, including myself, firmly believe in the efficacy of specialist players,” he emphasized.
Tiwary also pointed out tactical errors, notably the decision to exclude wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. “I believe Kuldeep should have participated in this match and the previous one. Wrist-spinners have always fared well against England, as their batters struggle to read them. I think we missed an opportunity there,” he remarked, adding that “our batters Sai Sudharsan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal failing to score beyond 50-60 runs also complicated our situation.”
Gautam Gambhir, one of India’s premier batsmen from 2008 to 2011, earned accolades for his resilience and determination, amassing over 10,000 international runs and delivering crucial innings in both the 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup finals. As a leader, he guided Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL championships as captain and one as a mentor, before taking on the intense responsibility of India’s head coach.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the importance of strategic player selection in Test cricket. Manoj Tiwary's arguments highlight a growing concern about the balance between all-rounder capabilities and specialist skills. As India navigates a challenging series against England, this discussion is vital for both the team's immediate performance and long-term development in the sport.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manoj Tiwary's criticism of Gambhir's coaching?
Manoj Tiwary criticizes Gautam Gambhir's preference for all-rounders over specialist players, arguing that this strategy is unsuitable for Test cricket.
How has India's Test ranking changed since Gambhir became head coach?
Since Gautam Gambhir's appointment in July 2024, India's Test ranking has dropped from No.1 to No.4.
What are the key issues Tiwary identifies in the current team selection?
Tiwary points out the lack of stability in player selection and the frequent exclusion of underperforming players without giving them a chance to prove themselves.
Why does Tiwary believe Kuldeep Yadav should have played?
Tiwary believes Kuldeep Yadav's wrist-spin would have been effective against England, as their batters struggle against this type of bowling.
What is Tiwary's overall stance on player selection in Test cricket?
Tiwary advocates for a focus on specialist players in Test cricket, emphasizing the need for consistency and trust in player selection.
