# Gambhir and Coaching Staff Split Ahead of Test Series Preparations Coaching duties are divided between ODI and Test squads following the third match. - **Source:** [ESPNcricinfo](https://www.espncricinfo.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/31479985-ecb1-4700-9d98-57106a1648c4 ## Strategic Coaching Division The national cricket team is implementing a strategic split of its coaching staff following the conclusion of the third ODI. This decision aims to streamline preparation efforts as the squad transitions between different formats. Coaching resources are being reallocated to ensure both the ODI and Test teams receive focused technical guidance. ## Test Squad Preparations Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel are set to join the Test squad immediately. Their primary objective is to oversee specialized training sessions tailored for the longer format of the game. This transition marks a critical phase in the team's broader preparation strategy for the upcoming Test series. ## ODI Team Continuity Head coach Gautam Gambhir will remain with the ODI side alongside spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. This arrangement ensures continuity for the limited-overs format while the rest of the staff shifts focus. By maintaining this specific leadership structure, the team aims to finalize their performance goals before the ODI series officially concludes. ## Specialized Technical Focus The division of coaches reflects a modern approach to managing multi-format international cricket schedules. By separating the staff, the team can address the distinct technical demands of Test cricket versus the ODI format. This targeted allocation of expertise allows coaches to dedicate their full attention to the specific needs of players. ## Operational Coaching Dynamics This restructuring highlights the logistical complexity of managing a modern cricket team across varying formats. Coaches must balance immediate match requirements with long-term series planning. The split ensures that neither the ODI performance nor the Test preparation is compromised by the overlapping schedule of these two distinct international cricket series. ## Staff Role Allocation Sitanshu Kotak and Morne Morkel bring specific expertise required for the rigors of Test cricket, such as long-form batting discipline and endurance bowling. Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir and Sairaj Bahutule focus on the tactical nuances of the ODI game. This clear demarcation of roles is intended to optimize player development and performance. ## Transitioning Between Formats Transitioning between ODI and Test cricket requires significant adjustments in both strategy and physical conditioning. The coaching staff split facilitates this shift by providing specialized support for the unique challenges of each format. Players will benefit from consistent, focused instruction as they move from the white-ball game to red-ball cricket. ## Future Performance Implications The success of this coaching split will be measured by the team's performance in the upcoming Test series. By prioritizing preparation now, the management hopes to build momentum and tactical clarity. This proactive approach to staff deployment underscores the importance of specialized coaching in maintaining competitive standards at the highest level. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/1561929.html?ex_cid=OTC-RSS — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._