Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has shared insights into his strategic approach and key priorities since taking on the role. His focus is primarily on enhancing red-ball cricket and fostering a strong team culture. During an interview with his former teammate and current commentator Cheteshwar Pujara, Gambhir elaborated on his vision amidst India's ongoing Test series against England at Lord's.

Despite his success in limited-overs formats, Gambhir highlighted that first-class and Test cricket are his main concerns, especially during this period of significant transition in the team's batting, bowling, and fielding departments.

“This is likely the first time we are witnessing a transition across all three areas: batting, bowling, and fielding,” Gambhir stated. “My top priority is first-class cricket at home, as that is where everything begins.”

Since assuming his position, Gambhir has consistently emphasized the importance of building a team culture rooted in discipline, commitment, and continuous improvement.

“For us, it’s about growing, learning, and competing every day,” he remarked. “It’s a daily battle to represent the tri-colour with pride. My personal identity is secondary; what truly matters is Indian cricket. I value every opinion regarding our dressing room culture, as everyone deserves to be heard.”

Gambhir also candidly addressed the challenge of balancing his professional responsibilities with personal commitments. He returned to India to care for his ailing mother before the first Test in Leeds, raising discussions about work-life balance in elite sports.

“Yes, family is important. However, when you are here, you must understand your role. For me, every day is about being fully engaged. Complacency has no place here,” he clarified.

With a commendable record in white-ball cricket, including leading India to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and nurturing a robust T20I team under Suryakumar Yadav, Gambhir's journey in red-ball cricket has faced challenges. India suffered a historic 0-3 home series defeat against New Zealand last year, marking their first home Test series loss in over a decade. This was followed by a 1-3 defeat in Australia, resulting in the loss of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final for a third consecutive time.

Under Gambhir's leadership, India has recorded only four wins in 12 Tests so far, with seven losses and one draw, a stark contrast to the team's previous performances. Nevertheless, Gambhir remains optimistic that steady progress and a commitment to cultural integrity will yield positive results.

As India navigates their five-Test tour of England, the path ahead is challenging, but Gambhir is determined to stay the course.