Indian cricket is grappling with internal strife, as reports emerge of a cooling relationship between Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and key ODI players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. This alleged rift is casting a shadow over the team’s recent ODI series victory against South Africa, where India took a 1-0 lead after winning the first match by 17 runs.
The crucial win offered respite from recent series losses, including defeats to Australia and a clean sweep in South Africa. The inclusion of seasoned campaigners Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had injected much-needed stability and brilliance into the ODI setup. Both batsmen had showcased their class with remarkable scores, re-energizing the team and its fanbase.
Despite the positive on-field results, an undercurrent of tension is reportedly brewing. A prominent report suggests that Gambhir’s relationship with Kohli and Rohit has become distant, creating a less than ideal atmosphere in the ODI dressing room. While the T20 and Test teams are reportedly unaffected, the ODI environment is said to be experiencing a significant strain.
The personal disconnect between Gambhir and Kohli is highlighted, with minimal communication reported despite earlier signs of reconciliation. Similarly, Rohit Sharma’s interactions with chief selector Ajit Agarkar are also rumored to be difficult. The BCCI is reportedly unhappy with the amplified social media criticism directed at Gambhir, often fueled by the passionate fan bases of the senior players, which is believed to be exacerbating the internal discord.
In light of these concerns, the BCCI is reportedly planning a high-level meeting during the upcoming ODIs in Raipur and Visakhapatnam. The discussions are expected to revolve around the future of the senior players and the root causes of the reported friction. Adding to the intrigue, Gambhir is alleged to have denied Kohli and Rohit an extra net session, and his separate arrival in Ranchi further fuels speculation about internal divisions. Regardless of the off-field challenges, Kohli and Rohit continue to perform at an elite level, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the team’s success.