Harbhajan Singh has lauded Gautam Gambhir’s coaching technique and backed Shubman Gill as India’s ideal captain in reaction to ongoing criticism of the team’s Test cricket performance. The former India spinner said these things on August 13, 2026, as Gambhir’s side struggles with inconsistent results across forms.
Under Gambhir’s direction, India has won the 2025 Asia Cup, the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, India’s Test team has lost badly against Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa; the latter two series were whitewashes at home. This discrepancy between white-ball prowess and Test issues has prompted questions about Gambhir’s overall impact.
“For many people, Gautam might say bitter things but what he speaks is the bitter truth,” the former off-spinner said in response to the criticism, summarising Gambhir’s mindset and communication style. According to Harbhajan Singh, who was cited by myKhel, “many people can’t digest the truth, and perhaps the tone of his comments makes people feel that he is a slightly difficult person.”
Why Gambhir’s direct style divides opinions
Harbhajan advised spectators not to judge Gambhir based only on his public persona.
He defined Gambhir’s core values as being centred on aggressive intent and a winning mentality. According to Harbhajan, Gambhir’s philosophy of “Play To Win” sums up his style of playing cricket. “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” He is a really intelligent man. He understands the proper way to play the game. If winning a match is the goal, he won’t mind losing. He probably won’t accept a draw if a side goes for one, according to Harbhajan.
Gill’s performance history and future as captain
Shubman Gill is India’s Test and One-Day International captain as of August 2026. Under Gill’s leadership, India’s ODI sides have lost series to Australia, New Zealand, and England. Gill did demonstrate some competitive attempts in a 2-2 draw in an ODI series in England the year before, but generally inconsistent results.
Harbhajan lauded Gill as “the ideal man to lead the country,” indicating his strong belief in Gill’s suitability for the role as India’s new Test and ODI captain. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” he said, citing Gill’s performance in the England series as evidence of his talent and leadership skills. He proved his worth as captain in England last year, as we witnessed (India drew series 2-2).
That demonstrated his leadership and batting prowess. More runs were scored by him than by anyone else. I think highly of him. The group appeared dedicated. Harbhajan added, “There will be ups and downs, but he is a top cricketer and has a great cricket brain.”
