New Delhi: New India head coach Gautam Gambhir is hopeful that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be available for selection till the 2027 ODI World Cup as he felt there is a lot of cricket left in the duo. Both Kohli and Rohit retired from the shortest format after India T20 World Cup 2024 triumph in the Caribbean last month.
While both are currently enjoying their vacation following a gruelling three month of non-stop cricket that also included IPL, Rohit and Kohli will be back in action in the ODIs against Sri Lanka starting next month. The tour of Sri Lanka will also be Gambhir’s first assignment as head coach.
Gambhir also felt the experienced duo will play a huge role in India’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign next year in Pakistan. “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 told reporters on Monday in his first-ever press conference as India head coach.
“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 (2025) Champions Trophy and a big tour of Australia (at the end of 2024). Obviously they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can keep their fitness, the 2027 (ODI) World Cup as well,” he added.
Speaking about his much-talked relationship with Kohli, Gambhir said it “is between the two of us and not for TRPs”. Gambhir and Kohli had not been the best of friends, something which was evident from the multiple confrontations between the two in the IPL. However, the duo will now be working together starting with the tour of Sri Lanka from July 27.
“My relationship with Virat Kohli is between the two of us and not for TRP,” Gambhir said. In the context of Kohli, Gambhir added, “We have had lots of discussions and everyone has the right fight for their jersey.” With the departure of seniors Rohit Sharma and Kohli from the T20 International scene, workload management of someone like Jasprit Bumrah assumes greater significance, Gambhir said.
“Workload for someone like Jasprit Bumrah is important. Now that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will play only two formats, I expect them to be available for most games,” Gambhir said.
