Team India are all set to play under their new head coach Gautam Gambhir in the series against Sri Lanka in July. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who retired from T20Is after the World Cup last month, will play in the ODI series, but they are both past 35 and there are questions regarding how long will they be around. Gambhir, however, has left that decision to them only but he feels they still “have a lot of cricket left in them” if they “can keep their fitness” as well.
“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 said at his first press conference since replacing Rahul Dravid as 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 Champions Trophy [in 2025] and a big tour of Australia [in November 2024], obviously they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can keep their fitness, the 2027 [ODI] World Cup as well,” the new head coach shared in the pre-match press conference.
ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya shares happiness after winning back the love of fans
“But this is a very personal decision. I can’t say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it’s up to them as well, it’s up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team’s success. Because, ultimately, it’s the team that is important. But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot of cricket [left to play]. They’re still world-class players and obviously any team would want to have both of them for as long as possible,” he further added.
However, Gautam Gambhir also responded that three different teams can be seen for three formats going forward.
“Going forward these things happen. Virat, Rohit and Ravindra are not there. Right now, you can say there will be three different teams. T20 cricket is going through a transition. But, in 50-over and Test cricket, consistency is the key. if we can find players who can play those two formats consistently, you can play them. Consistency is key for that. That’s my opinion, the chairman can speak more about it,” Gambhir concluded.
