Gautam Gambhir's position as the head coach of the Indian cricket team is under immense pressure, particularly in the Test format, after a string of disappointing results. The team's recent loss to England in the first Test at Headingley has intensified the scrutiny. This defeat adds to a worrying trend, with India having won only one of their last nine Test matches under Gambhir's leadership.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has publicly stated that Gambhir's future is at serious risk if the team doesn't deliver results. According to Chopra, the pressure is "absolutely mounting" on Gambhir. He pointed out that while Gambhir has secured victories against Bangladesh and Australia, the team has suffered multiple defeats, including series losses to New Zealand and Australia. These include a 3-0 whitewash in New Zealand and a 3-1 defeat against Australia, which resulted in losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The recent Test match against England saw India, under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill, falter in the final session, despite having a strong position earlier in the game. India lost the match by five wickets. This has led to criticism of Gambhir's strategies and team selections. Fans have expressed their frustration on social media, with some calling for Gambhir's removal as coach.

Gambhir's coaching approach has been described as "no-nonsense" and "aggressive". However, this approach has not translated into consistent success in red-ball cricket. There are reports suggesting Gambhir has, in the past, expressed his displeasure with players who prioritized their "natural game" over the team's strategies. Following a defeat against Australia, Gambhir reportedly stated that he would decide how the team plays moving forward. He had apparently given the squad six months to adapt to his approach but was now ready to take strict action, even exclusion from the squad for those unwilling to comply with his strategies.

Adding to the pressure, Gambhir's preferences regarding team selection have reportedly been overruled in the past. This has led to frustration and criticism of players for not adhering to pre-decided strategies. He also emphasized the importance of domestic cricket, expecting players to participate when available to maintain their form and commitment to red-ball cricket. Following the 3-1 series loss to Australia, Gambhir demanded that players prioritize domestic cricket.

Despite the criticism, Gambhir has also emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for failures as a team. After the defeat against England, he stated that he would not single out individuals for dropped catches or batting collapses. He acknowledged that the batting collapses were disappointing but insisted that the team was putting in the effort and would improve.

With the England series ongoing, the pressure on Gautam Gambhir to deliver results is immense. Former players and fans alike are closely watching his strategies and the team's performance. The outcome of the series could very well determine his future as the head coach of the Indian Test team.