5th Test Between India and Australia Marks a Turning Point Amid Team Tensions
The fifth and final Test between India and Australia in Sydney has set the stage for what could be a new era for the Indian team. Skipper Rohit Sharma stepped aside, allowing Shubman Gill to rejoin the playing XI, while Jasprit Bumrah returned to lead the side for the second time this series.
However, reports have surfaced highlighting troubling signs of discord within the Indian camp, which became evident following Bumrah’s leadership in India’s opening victory at Perth—their only win of the series so far. These developments have raised questions about the team’s unity and dynamics heading into a pivotal match.
Report Highlights Fragmented Celebrations in Indian Camp Post Perth Win
A report in The Australian has revealed cracks within the Indian cricket team, evident during their celebration of the Perth Test victory. Instead of coming together as a unit, players reportedly broke into separate groups to mark the occasion.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen enjoying a quiet Indian meal with his family, while some younger players roamed around Hay Street late at night. Interestingly, a senior member of the support staff allegedly offered his credit card to cover players’ drink expenses, but the offer reportedly went unused.
Adding to the narrative, the reporter recounted an encounter with a reserve Indian team member at a kebab shop at 1:45 a.m. before one of the Tests. During their conversation, the player asked if skipper Rohit Sharma or coach Gambhir had mentioned him, saying:
“Has Gauti bhai said anything about me to you?”
The player then expressed his discontent, stating:
“Nobody says anything to me in the team—not the captain or the coach. I don’t know what’s happening.”
This incident has raised concerns about team dynamics and communication within the squad.
Gautam Gambhir Faces Scrutiny as Players Voice Concerns About His Leadership Style
Ahead of the Sydney Test, it was head coach Gautam Gambhir, not skipper Rohit Sharma, who addressed the pre-match press conference. When questioned about Rohit’s absence, Gambhir downplayed it, stating it was appropriate for him to take the lead at the presser.
According to a report, several players have expressed unease with Gambhir’s working style, citing uncertainty about how he might react in various situations. This contrasts with the more predictable and approachable leadership of his predecessors, Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid. Gambhir’s presence in the dressing room has reportedly evoked mixed feelings among the players, highlighting potential friction within the team.
