Kohli, Rohit, Ashwin Retire – Can Gautam Gambhir Lead India’s Red-Ball Revival?
Indian cricket is currently navigating through one of its most emotional and defining transition periods in recent memory. Within a matter of weeks, three modern-day greats—Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin—have bid farewell to the longest format of the game. This trio not only formed the backbone of India’s Test dominance for over a decade but also inspired millions with their performances at home and abroad.
Rohit Sharma called time on his Test career shortly after leading the side through multiple WTC cycles. Just as fans were digesting that news, Virat Kohli—India’s most passionate red-ball ambassador—also announced his Test retirement. Prior to both, Ashwin had retired during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in December 2024.
With these icons stepping away, India’s Test team now stands at a crossroads. The responsibility to steer this young and evolving side has fallen upon newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, known for his grit and no-nonsense approach. But will he be given the space to rebuild?
Former India pacer Atul Wassan, speaking on the OTTPlay App, reflected on the situation, drawing parallels with successful past transitions under coaches like Gary Kirsten and John Wright. Wassan acknowledged the power dynamics at play within Indian cricket and emphasized the importance of tactful leadership.
“When a new coach is appointed, it usually happens after a failure. It’s not about fixing something that’s working—it’s about rebuilding with patience. But powerful players can sometimes resist change. That’s where coaches need diplomacy—‘Saam Daam Dand Bhed’—to bring the right balance,” Wassan said.
Wassan further stressed that the BCCI must give Gambhir full autonomy to implement his vision.
“A coach should be given a free hand. If he’s strong, let him make decisions. If results don’t follow, then you replace him. But interference will only hinder progress,” he added.
Wassan also suggested that the BCCI needs to balance its involvement with mentorship, rather than micromanagement.
As the Indian team prepares for a new era without some of its biggest names, all eyes will be on Gambhir’s leadership and how well the next generation responds to this challenging yet exciting phase in Indian Test cricket.
