Former India captain and selector Kris Srikkanth called for the BCCI to sack head coach Gautam Gambhir. This dismissal should occur if India fails to win the 2026 T20 World Cup, Srikkanth stated.
The comment came during a panel discussion on Star Sports’ “Cricbuzz” show on January 26, 2026. The 2026 T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, running from February 8 to March 8.
Gambhir’s Tenure Under Scrutiny
Gautam Gambhir was appointed India’s head coach in July 2024. His contract spans three-and-a-half years, concluding in July 2027. He receives an annual salary of INR 2 crore plus perks.
Srikkanth’s critique targets India’s recent T20I form under Gambhir. This includes a 0-3 whitewash by Australia in November 2024. India has also seen mixed results in bilateral series throughout 2025.
Gambhir’s coaching record, as of January 26, 2026, stands at 11 wins and 6 losses from 18 T20 Internationals, with one no-result. India’s win percentage is 61.1% during this period. India now ranks No. 2 in ICC T20I rankings, behind Australia, according to ICC official rankings.
India lost 3-0 to Australia in November 2024. They then won 4-1 against England in January-February 2025. But, India lost 1-4 to South Africa in July-August 2025. The team drew 2-2 with New Zealand in November-December 2025.
ESPNcricinfo statistics show the team’s batting average at 22.4 under Gambhir. The economy rate is 8.2. The team performed strongly against spin, with an economy rate of 7.1. However, they struggled against pace during tours to Australia and South Africa, conceding at 9.5 runs per over.
Srikkanth’s Firm Stance and BCCI Response
Kris Srikkanth, a 1983 World Cup winner and former national selector, articulated his demand clearly. “If India doesn’t win the next T20 World Cup, Gautam Gambhir should be sacked. No ifs and buts. He has to deliver a World Cup,” Srikkanth said on Cricbuzz.
Gambhir himself addressed the team’s objectives after the New Zealand series in December 2025. “Our focus is on processes, not results. T20 World Cup is the goal,” he stated.
As of January 27, 2026, the BCCI has not issued an official response to Srikkanth’s comments. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had previously commented on Gambhir’s appointment in July 2024. Saikia said, “Gambhir’s appointment is merit-based for long-term success.”
World Cup Expectations and Team Dynamics
India will co-host the 2026 T20 World Cup, granting them automatic entry into the Super 8 stage. Key rivals include Australia, the defending champions, and England, who won in 2022.
Coaches are rarely sacked mid-term in Indian cricket history. Rahul Dravid’s contract was not renewed after the 2024 T20 World Cup win, despite the 2023 ODI World Cup final loss. Ravi Shastri saw his tenure extended after the 2021 WTC final defeat.
The Indian T20I squad has undergone significant transitions. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from T20Is after the 2024 World Cup. Suryakumar Yadav has led the team as captain since December 2024. He holds a record of 12 wins in 20 T20Is as captain.
The 2026 T20 World Cup presents Gautam Gambhir with a clear mandate. The pressure to deliver a global title on home soil is high for the head coach.
Soureesh Datta 
Sagnik Banerjee 
Priyanjan Paul