Gautam Gambhir’s position as India’s red-ball coach appears secure for now according to reports from Revzports. The former India opener is very likely to continue in the role regardless of how the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka unfolds. The series will begin on August 15 in Galle and the second Test will be in Colombo on 23rd August. This series carries significant weight for India’s World Test Championship campaign. However, sources from cricket circles suggest the Board of Control for Cricket in India is not planning any immediate change at the coaching helm in the longest format even if results in Sri Lanka do not go India’s way.

Gambhir has faced criticism over India’s Test performances since taking charge. While his white-ball record has largely been good, the red-ball results have been mixed, with the team still navigating a period of transition under captain Shubman Gill. Despite the scrutiny the current assessment is that his job remains safe for the time being. This is a very crucial series for India to keep their hopes for WTC alive.

India’s WTC Qualification Hopes Hang in the Balance

India currently are fifth on the World Test Championship 2025-27 points table with a points percentage of 48.15. They have played nine Tests played so far and managed four wins, four losses and one draw. A 0-2 home whitewash against South Africa last year dealt a heavy blow to their standing and left them with little margin for error in the remaining fixtures. The road ahead is going to be tough. India have nine Tests left in the cycle which includes two away matches against Sri Lanka, two in New Zealand later this year, and a five-match home series against Australia in early 2027. To push for a top-two finish and a place in the final, the team will likely need to win at least seven of those nine matches. Anything less would leave them heavily dependent on results involving other sides.

Australia currently lead the table with a dominant percentage followed by South Africa and New Zealand. India’s recent form, particularly at home against quality opposition has raised concerns, but the upcoming series in Sri Lanka offers a good chance to collect crucial points and push forward. For Gambhir and Gill, the series is as much about gaining confidence as it is about keeping qualification hopes alive.