'We are always optimistic', Gautam Gambhir backs India’s WTC hopes despite fifth-place standing

Gautam Gambhir remains confident about India’s prospects in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle despite the team currently sitting fifth in the standings. Ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, the head coach stressed that the dressing room continues to believe it can reach the final and challenge for the title.

India has registered four wins and four defeats in the current WTC cycle, leaving them with work to do in the remaining fixtures. Upcoming Test assignments, including tours of New Zealand and Sri Lanka, are expected to play a crucial role in determining whether the team can secure a place in the championship final. While the Afghanistan Test serves as valuable preparation, it does not carry WTC points.

Transition phase still underway

Gambhir acknowledged that the Test side is still evolving following the retirement of senior players and the emergence of a younger core. Addressing the press conference ahead of the India-Afghanistan Test match, Gautam Gambhir said, "We are always optimistic. Till you have the opportunity to qualify for the World Test Championship Final, you are always optimistic because you know the kind of quality we have and the kind of talent we have. I don’t think so there’s any reason not to believe that we cannot win the World Test Championship.

And that is what not only me, but everyone in that dressing room will believe. Yes, we can have one or bad series here and there, but we know the kind of talent we have and how much hunger is there in the dressing room."

He also acknowledged," The team was going through a transition period, which is why our performances in Test cricket have dipped somewhat. But I am hopeful and confident that we will bounce back. We still have enough chances to qualify for the World Test Championship final. We know our abilities, and we have faith in ourselves. Every player knows what he needs to do. I believe that we will reach the World Test Championship final. Right now, our only goal is to win the World Test Championship, and I hope we will be able to achieve that."

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The coach pointed to encouraging performances in England and a successful series against the West Indies as signs that the team is moving in the right direction. While defeats against South Africa exposed areas that require improvement, Gambhir believes inconsistency is a natural part of developing a relatively inexperienced side.

Focus on future challenges

Looking ahead, Gambhir emphasised the importance of preparation for the remaining WTC fixtures. He highlighted the need for better red-ball planning, particularly before demanding overseas assignments. With several key Tests still to come, the Indian management remains hopeful that strong performances can revive the team’s qualification hopes.

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For Gambhir, the message is simple: India possesses enough talent, depth and hunger to remain firmly in the race, and the squad continues to back itself to compete for the World Test Championship crown.