Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has suggested that India consider split coaching, noting that it would reduce the burden on the coach. His remarks come after head coach Gautam Gambhir suffered yet another Test defeat since taking over the reins from Rahul Dravid in 2024. Harbhajan opined that it wouldn’t be a bad option to consider different coaches for different formats.
Should India consider split coaching in future?
Speaking to India Today, Harbhajan pointed out that split coaching would reduce the burden for everyone, including the coaches. BCCI decided to appoint Gambhir as the head coach for the team across all formats following Rahul Dravid’s exit after the T20 World Cup win. While India have fared well under Gambhir in ODIs and T20Is, it is in Tests that they have struggled.
“I feel if it can be implemented, there is nothing wrong in it. You have different teams and different players for formats. If we can do it, it’s a good option. It will reduce workload for everyone, including the coaches. So if it can happen, it isn’t a bad option,” said Harbhajan.
Further, Harbhajan said that even coaches need time to prepare for a series. He pointed out that the coach, irrespective of red or whitte-ball format, needed adequate time to plan and prepare for a series. Besides, the former Indian cricketer pointed out that the coach can’t be overworked since he had other responsibilities like family, etc.
“If you overwork one coach for the whole year, he, too has a family and responsibilities. Traveling constantly with family isn’t easy. So yes, if you ask me, splitting red-ball and white-ball coaching is a good move,” said Harbhajan.
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