Ex-BCCI selector defends Gautam Gambhir's dedication to the team, assures critics: 'He'll also be let down…'

Former BCCI selection committee member Sunil Joshi has come to the defense of under-fire Gautam Gambhir, offering his support after India's disappointing 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand. Gambhir, who has been facing criticism for his coaching performance, has failed to meet the high expectations set for him since taking on the role. Despite his impressive record in T20I matches, Gambhir's tenure has been marred by defeats, including a series loss to Sri Lanka and the recent Test whitewash by New Zealand. Joshi believes that Gambhir deserves time to prove himself and has faith in his abilities to turn things around for the Indian team.

Joshi is confident that Gambhir will bounce back as a coach and said it's too early to judge his coaching credentials after just two-Test series.

"Knowing Gautam Gambhir, he is a fighting cricketer and we know his commitment towards the game or towards the team. No coach will ever want to be on the wrong side of a result. We need to give him time. Let's now judge by the two series we have seen, just five Test matches. Of course, on home soil, we have lost. I am sure he will also be disappointed with the way the Test matches have gone, but don't judge his acumen or his commitment," Joshi told Times of India.

The series defeat to New Zealand has hurt India's chances to qualify for the World Test Championship final for the third consecutive time. Unless there is a remarkable turnaround Down Under, Gambhir, who was given a free hand in selection matters, may not have as much say in issues concerning the team in the coming times. The five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy is the last hope for India to make it to the Lord's, but for that, they have to beat Australia 4-0.

Joshi called Gambhir a fighter and said the critics should wait for at least two years before judging his coaching attributes.

"He is a fighter and he will come out successful. I know that. We have to give time to them (Gambhir and his coaching staff) to settle down. After two years, the results will be in front of us. Then we can judge."