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Harbhajan Singh criticizes Gambhir for interference in administration

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Photo Credit: Facebook Photo of Harbhajan Singh, Instagram Photo of @gautamgambhir55

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has criticized Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, questioning his involvement in administrative matters. Harbhajan stated that the coach’s responsibilities should focus on on-field performance rather than administrative decisions, which are the purview of the BCCI.

Harbhajan’s remarks followed the BCCI‘s release of a 10-point directive for centrally contracted players after a review meeting in Mumbai. The meeting included Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar. 

The guidelines require players to participate in domestic cricket for selection and impose restrictions on family travel, baggage allowances, personal staff, ad shoots, and early departures after matches. Players violating these rules could face penalties, including bans from board tournaments like the IPL, deductions from their annual contracts, and match fees. Exceptions require prior approval from the head coach and chief selector.

Harbhajan expressed dissatisfaction with this process, particularly the head coach’s involvement in granting approvals. Speaking to PTI, he said, “In our times, it used to be written that prior approval of BCCI was needed on certain matters. So, for approvals, drop a mail to BCCI and ask for permission. Why does the head coach need to get into all this? That is not his job.”

He emphasized that Gambhir should prioritize addressing the team’s on-field deficiencies, adding: “His (Gambhir’s) job is on the field and in the technical aspects where we are lacking. The administrative part should be left with competent people in the BCCI.”

Reports suggest that during the review meeting, Gambhir raised concerns about indiscipline within the team during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and expressed a desire to eliminate the “superstar culture.”

Gambhir’s tenure as head coach has faced scrutiny, with the team’s underperformance prompting speculation about his future. Decisions regarding his role may hinge on India’s performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff

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