Sydney, Jan 5 (Reporter) Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed deep concerns over India's recent batting performances and the role of the coaching staff, while also highlighting the importance of domestic cricket in developing future stars. Speaking on a sports channel, Gavaskar questioned the effectiveness of the current coaching approach and called for immediate accountability, particularly within the batting department. "In these programmes, we keep asking whether this player or that player should play in the future. I am saying we should also ask whether the coaching staff should continue," Gavaskar remarked, pointing to the team’s struggles in Border-Gavaskar Test series, including the crushing defeat to New Zealand, where India was bowled out for just 46. He criticised the lack of improvement in players' technical and mental skills, stating, "These 'throwdowns, throwdowns', nothing happens because of that. You had to help improve their technique and temperament. You didn't do it." While critical of the coaching staff, Gavaskar also recognised the bright future of India’s young cricketers, singling out players like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Yashasvi Jaiswal for their determination and ability to protect their wickets with resilience. "These players demonstrate the kind of commitment needed for success," he said, urging others to emulate their hunger to make a name for themselves in the game. As the Ranji Trophy kicks off on January 23, Gavaskar underscored its significance for players who missed out on selection for India’s T20 matches against England. He stressed that domestic cricket should be the priority, particularly for players looking to improve their skills and remain competitive. "Prioritising domestic cricket over other formats is crucial for improving skills and staying competitive," he explained, highlighting that the Ranji Trophy provides a vital platform for honing batting techniques and consistency. The recent lack of centuries or half-centuries in India’s Test performances, according to Gavaskar, points to deeper technical flaws and a lack of application. He noted that Nitish Kumar Reddy was the only player to score a century apart from the first Test, reflecting the absence of significant contributions from other batters. Gavaskar called for immediate action to rectify these technical deficiencies, especially with the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle set to begin in June. He urged selectors to make tough decisions, including excluding players who skip the Ranji Trophy without valid reasons, reinforcing the importance of commitment to Indian cricket. "We have to ask the question: 'What were you doing? What was the coaching staff doing? Why was there no improvement?'" he stated, citing India’s batting woes in both the New Zealand and Australia series. Furthermore, Gavaskar emphasised the role of head coach Gautam Gambhir in holding players accountable and ensuring a culture of participation in domestic cricket. He advocated for the exclusion of players avoiding the Ranji Trophy, asserting that their absence reflects a lack of commitment to the team’s success and high standards. India’s recent Test series losses have highlighted the need for a more rigorous preparation approach, according to Gavaskar. He stressed the importance of addressing deficiencies in batting technique, fitness, and mental application ahead of the next WTC cycle. "What have you done? What were you working on?" he demanded, stressing that unless immediate corrective actions are taken, India risks continued underperformance in international cricket...////...