Gautam Gambhir slams Indian Team Management for mismanagement of players like Prithvi Shaw

Since taking over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid has faced a barrage of criticism on social media. Team India's performance under Dravid has suffered a steep decline, with the team losing a large number of matches. Even away from home, India was performing admirably, but they failed to deliver during Dravid's tenure.

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Not only does the legendary batter struggle with performance, but also with player management. India has had to play key tournaments and big matches without their top players due to untimely injuries and a lack of off-field monitoring.

Dravid was also heavily criticised for not giving enough opportunities to young players. Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir blasted Dravid and the selectors on Star Sports for ignoring talented youngsters. He used the example of Prithvi Shaw, who had a fantastic start to his international career but quickly faded away.

“What are coaches there for? What are selectors there for? Not to just select the squad or probably to do those throw-downs or make them ready for the game. Ultimately it’s the selectors and coaches and management who should try and help these guys. Someone like Prithvi Shaw, we all know the kind of talent he has. Probably they should get him on the right track and that is what one of the jobs of management is,” Gambhir told Star Sports.

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Give him clarity and keep him around the group: Gautam Gambhir

Gambhir also suggested that the head coach and selectors meet with Shaw, who has been struggling with his fitness and discipline.

“I feel that if that’s the case (fitness and lifestyle issues), someone – whether it’s Rahul Dravid or the chairman of selectors – should actually have a word with him, give him clarity and keep him around the group. People who should be on the right path should be around the group so that they are monitored better. Because the moment you leave them apart, they can go all over the place,” Gambhir added.