India head coach Gautam Gambhir, newly appointed and already making headlines, has expressed his expectations for senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to be available for the majority of ODIs and Tests following their retirement from T20 Internationals.
A move, seen as a strategic step towards preparing for the 2027 50-over World Cup.
Both Rohit and Kohli recently announced their retirement from the T20I format after India’s triumphant World Cup campaign earlier this month.
Contrary to speculations about their absence in the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, both players have been included in India's squad for the three ODIs next month.
This decision is aimed at maintaining team strength ahead of the Champions Trophy, scheduled for early next year.
In his maiden media interaction since taking over as head coach, Gambhir underscored the significance of workload management, especially for premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, but emphasized the consistent presence of Rohit and Kohli in the squad.
“I’ve reiterated before that workload management for someone like Jasprit Bumrah is crucial. However, for batters like Rohit and Virat, if they maintain their form, it’s beneficial for them to play most of the games,” Gambhir stated.
With Rohit and Virat now focusing on just two formats, Gambhir expressed confidence in their availability for the majority of matches.
“Since they’ve retired from T20 cricket, we only need to manage them for ODIs and Tests. I believe they will be present for most games,” he added.
Bumrah’s case, however, is different. Gambhir pointed out the necessity of handling Bumrah with extra care due to the regular injury concerns that fast bowlers face.
“Our responsibility is to ensure Bumrah remains fresh for key games. This is why workload management, especially for fast bowlers, is very important,” he mentioned.
Gambhir also highlighted the importance of fitness for Rohit and Kohli as they aim for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa.
“They’ve demonstrated their capability on crucial occasions – in both T20 and 50-over World Cups. I’m confident they have a lot of cricket left in them,” he said.
He further added that the upcoming Champions Trophy and a significant tour of Australia would serve as motivating factors for the duo.
“Their focus on fitness will be crucial if they aim to participate in the 2027 World Cup. This, however, is a personal decision for them,” Gambhir remarked.
Different teams for different formats?
Gambhir did not dismiss the possibility of having distinct teams for different formats but stressed the need for consistency in the Indian team. The T20I side is already in transition following the retirements of Rohit, Kohli, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
“Looking forward, it’s natural for such changes to happen. With Virat, Rohit, and Ravindra not playing T20Is, the team will undergo a transition. However, I can’t definitively say we’ll have three separate teams,” he said.
“The T20I team will see changes with three world-class players retiring, but consistency in the 50-over and Test teams is vital. Having more players available for both formats is beneficial for the team,” Gambhir added.
Keeping it simple
Gambhir, reflecting on his experiences as a mentor for IPL teams Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders, emphasized the importance of a happy and simple dressing room environment.
“My approach is straightforward – it’s all about winning. A happy dressing room is a winning one, and I aim to keep things simple,” he asserted.
International cricket, Gambhir noted, can be tough and create feelings of insecurity due to the limited spots available.
“It’s the support staff’s job to keep the players in a happy state. This will be a key focus for us,” he said.
Follow us
