After India’s mixed results in the Test series against England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has initiated a comprehensive review of the coaching staff and selectors. Head coach Gautam Gambhir is expected to retain his role, but bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate are under close scrutiny, with key decisions on their futures likely to come after the Asia Cup.
The review stems from concerns over India’s Test performances, where strategic lapses and underwhelming bowling returns have drawn criticism. While Gambhir’s impact on the white-ball side has been positive, the red-ball setup has faltered, prompting the board to evaluate the entire support structure.
Morne Morkel has faced the most questions. His tenure has yet to produce a consistent pace attack, and tactical calls—such as overlooking Kuldeep Yadav for the entire series and fielding underprepared pacers—have been flagged as missteps. The lack of breakthroughs in key sessions further amplified doubts over his plans.
Ryan ten Doeschate’s role as performance and assistant coach is also under review. The board is reportedly unhappy with the lack of visible impact from his appointment, questioning whether his responsibilities are clearly defined or adding tangible value to the side’s preparation.
For now, both Morkel and ten Doeschate will remain in place through the Asia Cup due to scheduling stability, but insiders suggest changes are likely before India’s next home Test series against West Indies.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and his panel are also being assessed. Selection calls during the England series, particularly the exclusion of proven match-winners and the balance of the XI, have come under fire. East Zone selector Shiv Sundar Das’s position is reportedly part of the review as well, though the board appears to favour continuity until the Asia Cup concludes.
Despite the shake-up around him, Gambhir’s position appears secure. BCCI sources indicate the board views his leadership as a stabilizing factor, especially with India’s white-ball success and upcoming global tournaments. The review is focused less on the head coach and more on creating a sharper, more results-oriented support structure beneath him.
The decisions post-Asia Cup are expected to define India’s coaching framework heading into the next cycle of Tests and major ICC events. For Morkel and ten Doeschate, the Asia Cup may serve as a final opportunity to justify their roles. For Indian cricket as a whole, the review signals a push for accountability and the search for a coaching setup capable of delivering consistent results across formats.