The simmering tensions between Indian cricket's star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and the team's head coach Gautam Gambhir, show no signs of easing. This ongoing situation has now prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to schedule a crucial meeting to deliberate on the future of the two senior players in the ODI setup.
Incidents Fuel Speculation of a Rift
Despite their match-winning performances in the recent first ODI against South Africa, the atmosphere remains charged. Speculation intensified after Virat Kohli was allegedly seen avoiding an interaction with Gambhir following the victory. According to reports, Kohli, while walking towards the dressing room, noticed the coach, took out his phone, and walked past without exchanging any words.
However, some fans dismissed this theory, pointing to a brief side-hug shared between Kohli and Gambhir at the match's conclusion. Gambhir was also visibly enthusiastic, celebrating Kohli's record-extending 52nd ODI century during the game.
Adding to the narrative, a viral video showing an animated and seemingly serious conversation between Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir has further fueled rumors of internal discord within the Indian squad.
High-Level Meeting to Decide ODI Future
As per a report in Dainik Jagran, the relationship between the coach and the two senior players is not ideal. A source revealed, "The relations between Gautam Gambhir and senior players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma aren’t as good as they should be." Consequently, a high-level discussion involving the BCCI, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and Gambhir himself has been planned.
This meeting, likely to be held in Raipur or Visakhapatnam—venues for the second and third ODIs against Australia—will address the future role of Kohli and Sharma. The decision comes on the back of what was perceived as a 'rusty' performance by the duo in the first two ODIs against Australia, despite India winning the third match in Sydney by nine wickets. Australia eventually clinched that series 2-1.
The 2027 World Cup Question and Domestic Cricket Directive
With the 2027 Cricket World Cup still a distant goal, both Gambhir and Agarkar have remained non-committal about including the two legends in their long-term plans. This has placed Kohli and Sharma in a position where they must consistently prove their worth in every ODI they play henceforth.
In a significant development, the two have reportedly been asked to consider playing in the domestic Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament to stay in contention for national ODI selection. A Times of India report suggests both players might participate for a potential "last dance" on the grand stage.
While Kohli and Sharma have been instrumental in India's recent ODI successes, the evolving dynamics under the new coaching leadership indicate a period of transition and tough conversations lie ahead for Indian cricket.
