Virat Kohli has a new statement, as he is willing to play under Gautham Gambhir’s coaching. Kohli mentioned that he is not letting the past get in the way. Expressing the great joy of having Gambhir on board as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, the 42-year-old former Indian cricketer was pleased with the new development. This was made on July 9, after they did not renew Rahul Dravid’s contract last month in June. Gambhir’s term as head coach will start in the upcoming series of Indian cricket matches against Sri Lanka, where India will be playing three T20is and three ODI matches.
Kohli’s Inclusion: A Strategic Decision
Among those who did make it to the team, the most unexpected member was Virat Kohli, who is currently spending time with his family in London. Earlier, the news was out there stating that Rohit Sharma and Kohli would be rested for the Sri Lanka series. While writing his review on the showing of India in the Twenty20 series in South Africa, Gambhir stated that he wanted to have both of them included in the international team. This led to consultations between the board officials and the players, who were later convinced to participate in the event.
One of the significant aspects of this announcement is the professional dynamics between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir. The duo has had a history of heated altercations during Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, leading to speculation about their working relationship. However, a report from Cricbuzz has revealed that Kohli is comfortable working with Gambhir. The former Indian captain has communicated clearly to the BCCI officials that past issues will not impact their professional relationship. The report stated:
Kohli is believed to have stated that previous issues will not affect their professional relationship in the dressing room. Following the (T20) World Cup final in Barbados, discussions were reportedly held on the matter. Kohli, who, like Gambhir, is from Delhi, assured the concerned parties that he recognizes both are working towards the country’s interests and is ready to move on from earlier disagreements.
The inclusion of Kohli and Rohit for the Sri Lanka tour underscores the importance of their presence in the squad, particularly in a transitional phase under a new head coach. However, there was a consensus on giving rest to premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah, allowing him to recuperate and manage his workload effectively.
Gambhir’s Coaching Debut Against Sri Lanka
Of course, Gambhir’s first test as head coach will be in Sri Lanka, and the T20I series will take place on July 27, 28, and 30. After the T20Is, the teams will play three ODIs scheduled for August 2nd, 4th, and 7th, respectively. This was the tour from which Gambhir must start his mission to motivate and take the Indian cricket team to a higher level. The Indian Cricket Board, the BCCI, declared a team for the tour to Sri Lanka on July 18.
The Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) announced its squad for the Sri Lankan tour on July 18th. A significant aspect is that Suryakumar Yadav will be leading the team in the T20I series, showcasing his ascendancy as the leader of the team. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma, who has been inactive because of his holiday, is expected to come back and captain the team in the one-day games.
The squad list also saw the inclusion of Kohli for the 50-over games, even though there were rumors that he would not feature for India due to fatigue.
Also Read: Mohammed Shami’s Unbreakable And Obvious Friendship with Kohli and Sharma
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