Gautam Gambhir has mentioned that there are no issues between him and Virat Kohli, and he has engaged in discussions with the star batsman since becoming the coach of the Indian team earlier this month. He also clarified that their previous clashes, captured on camera during IPL games, were a result of the competitive nature of the sport, as every player aims to return to their dressing room as a winner. “I have a good relationship with Virat,” he stated.
When reminded about their history of disagreements, the new coach stated, “(It was) good for the TRPs,” and further mentioned that their relationship is not for public consumption. “It’s between two mature individuals.”
He emphasized that those incidents will not affect their relationship while representing the country. “On the field, everyone has the right to compete for their jersey and bring back a winning atmosphere to the dressing room. However, currently, we’re representing India, representing 140 crore Indians, and I’m sure we’re going to be on the same page and strive to make India proud. I share a very good off-field relationship and will continue to do so. But to make it more public what kind of relationship… I think it’s between two individuals.”
Clarifying Relations: Gambhir and Kohli
When specifically asked if he had spoken with Kohli, Gambhir replied that he had conversed with him. “I’ve had numerous chats with him. We’ve exchanged messages. It’s not important what we discussed, how many chats I’ve had with him, after my announcement as coach or before my announcement or during the game, after the games. Sometimes, chasing headlines isn’t important. Right now, what matters most is that we are both committed to working extremely hard to make India proud. And that’s our job.”
Gambhir also praised Kohli as a batter. “He’s a dedicated professional, a world-class athlete, and a world-class player. I’ve always said that. I have immense respect for him as a player and it will continue. And hopefully, we can collaborate well.”
When asked how long he saw Kohli and Rohit Sharma continuing to play for India, he mentioned it was up to the players. “I can’t predict how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it’s up to them, how much they can contribute to the team’s success. Ultimately, the team is what’s important. However, considering what Virat and Rohit can offer, I think they still have plenty left. They’re still exceptional players.”
Balancing Workloads: Ensuring Peak Performance
Gambhir’s recent remarks on managing players’ workloads have sparked varied interpretations. Some believe he advocates for players to participate in all games. However, he clarified that he recognizes the importance of resting players like Jasprit Bumrah and other fast bowlers. Nonetheless, he sees no reason why players such as Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have retired from T20 cricket, cannot participate in all formats. He stated, “Workload management is crucial for someone like Bumrah. If a batsman can consistently perform well, they should play all games.”
“Rohit and Virat are no longer playing T20 cricket, and they are only focusing on two formats. Consequently, they will be available for most games. For Bumrah, given his rare talent as a bowler, it’s our responsibility to keep him fresh for important matches. Therefore, workload management is extremely important not only for Bumrah but also for fast bowlers in general.”
Gambhir, who has achieved success as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders, expressed that his coaching philosophy revolves around creating a positive environment. “From my perspective, it’s quite simple. Granting players freedom is essential. I firmly believe in building relationships based on trust rather than enforcing a coach-player dynamic. The most crucial factor for me is that they can always count on my support. As I have always maintained, a happy dressing room is a successful dressing room, and we aim to create a joyful and secure environment for the coaching staff. I don’t believe in complicating things; I simply aim to maintain the success of the team. While it presents a challenge to fill big shoes, I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity.”
Upcoming Challenges: Preparing for the Test Schedule
India is scheduled to play 10 Test matches in the next five to six months, and Gambhir acknowledged that it will be a demanding period. “It will always be a challenge when you take charge across all three formats. After the Sri Lanka tour, we have a substantial break before embarking on 10 Test matches (two against Bangladesh, three against New Zealand, and five against Australia). I don’t see this as an issue. It allows for continuous play, especially with the significant Australian tour approaching. I’m genuinely excited about it and hopeful that we will perform well in these 10 Test matches. Additionally, the chairman, Ajit Agarkar, has already emphasized the importance of some players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, in these upcoming matches. I eagerly anticipate these fixtures.”
Gambhir also confirmed the composition of his support staff for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, including Abhishek Nayar, and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, T. Dilip as the fielding coach, and Sairaj Bahutule as the bowling coach.
PC: Hindustantimes
