India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has firmly brushed aside rumours of any miscommunication or rift between the team management and senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, insisting that dialogue with the two stalwarts remains regular, open and transparent. Speculation had gathered pace following Rohit and Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket and Shubman Gill’s elevation as India’s new ODI captain, a move that some interpreted as a sign of shifting dynamics within the leadership group.

Adding fuel to the chatter were reports suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had convened a meeting during the South Africa series to address alleged communication gaps between senior players and the selectors. However, Kotak made it clear that such narratives are far from reality and that the dressing room continues to function with clarity and alignment.

“They discuss with Gautam (Gambhir) about the ODI format, the matches we have, and our plans going ahead to South Africa for the 2027 World Cup. Most of the time I’m there and I hear those conversations. They constantly share their experience and ideas,” Sitanshu Kotak said, as quoted by The Indian Express. He also dismissed social media speculation, stating that much of it is best ignored.

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Kotak highlighted the professionalism of both Rohit and Kohli, pointing out that players of their stature hardly need reminders or instructions. Instead, their vast experience allows them to contribute meaningfully to team discussions and guide younger players. “They are thorough professionals. With the experience they have, they share a lot of ideas, and those conversations happen regularly,” he added.

The batting coach also revealed that Rohit and Kohli have spoken to head coach Gautam Gambhir about their future plans, though the management has consciously avoided making public statements. The selection committee, too, is in no hurry to take definitive calls, preferring a measured and respectful approach.

On the field, both veterans have continued to silence doubts with their performances. Since the South Africa series, Kohli has struck two centuries and added three fifties, while Rohit has enjoyed a rich vein of form since the Australia series, compiling three half-centuries and a hundred.

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“They are extremely senior players who plan everything meticulously — from practice schedules to fitness and recovery. They know what their bodies need and how to prepare at different venues. Planning-wise, they are outstanding,” Sitanshu Kotak said, underlining why the team management has complete trust in the duo as India build towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.