India’s newly-appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir during the press conference ahead of India Sri Lanka Series in Mumbai on Monday., July 22, 2024.
| Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
In his first public appearance as the India head coach, Gautam Gambhir has stressed on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli – the two veterans of India’s men’s cricket – have “a lot of cricket left in them”. Gambhir even hinted at the possibility of the duo featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
“I think they have shown what they can deliver on the big stage, whether it’s the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup as well,” Gambhir said here on Monday, minutes before the team’s departure for the limited overs’ series in Sri Lanka.
“One thing I can be very clear of is that both those guys have a lot of cricket left in them. More importantly, with the Champions Trophy (in 2025) and a big tour of Australia (towards year-end), obviously they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can keep their fitness, the 2027 World Cup as well.
“But this is a very personal decision. I can’t say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it’s up to them as well, it’s up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team’s success. Because, ultimately, it’s the team that is important.
“But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot of cricket (left to play). They are still world-class players and obviously any team would want to have both of them for as long as possible.”
Moments after India reclaimed the T20 World Cup after 17 years, Kohli and Rohit retired from T20Is. Gambhir and his visibly frosty relationship with Virat Kohli on the field, especially in the Indian Premier League, has raised doubts over the duo’s relationship in the India dressing room.
‘Now that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will play only two formats, I expect them to be available for most games,” Gambhir said. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkaris seen along with Gambhir during the press conferenc in Mumbai on Monday.
| Photo Credit:
EMMANUAL YOGINI
Gambhir, however, made no bones clear about two professionals working towards the team goal.
‘Not for TRP’: Gambhir on Kohli
“It’s good for the TRP, but our relationship is not public. What kind of a relationship I share with Virat Kohli… I think it’s between two mature individuals.” Gambhir said.
“On the field, everyone has the right to fight for their own jersey and come back to a winning dressing room. But at the moment, we are representing India, representing 140 crore Indians and I am sure we are going to be on the same page and try and make India proud. I share a very good relationship (with Virat) off the field and will continue to do that.”
