[Watch] IND vs SA 2025: ‘Coaching chhod do’ – Fan taunts Gautam Gambhir from stands ahead of 1st ODI

A fan at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi expressed his frustration in front of head coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of India’s first ODI against South Africa. India’s Test record at home took a further hit after they were recently clean swept 2-0 by South Africa in the two-match series.

Gambhir and another member from the Indian team were in the midst of a routine jog during one of the practice sessions ahead of the first ODI in Ranchi when the fan yelled that Gambhir should not coach the Indian team anymore, and that the he should not consider India as the favourites for the 2027 World Cup. 

“3-0 ghar mein [vs New Zealand in 2024]. [South] Africa ke saamne 1-0 [2-0]. Coaching chhod do. South Africa ke saamne ghar mein nahi jeet sakte, 2027 ka World Cup bhool jao,” yelled the fan from the stands.

While Gambhir has won the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup under his stint this year, the main point of concern has been India‘s form in red-ball cricket. The recently-concluded South Africa series meant India lost their tenth Test in Gambhir’s tenure, which commenced after Rahul Dravid’s stint came to an end in 2024.