(AFP Photo)
Gautam Gambhir is gearing up for his new role as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. The 42-year-old former Indian cricketer was appointed to this prestigious position on July 9, succeeding Rahul Dravid whose tenure recently concluded. Gambhir’s debut series as head coach will see India taking on Sri Lanka in a series comprising three T20Is scheduled for July 27, 28, and 30, followed by three ODIs on August 2, 4, and 7.
The BCCI unveiled India’s squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka on Thursday, July 18. Suryakumar Yadav has been entrusted with the captaincy for the T20Is, while Rohit Sharma will lead the team in the ODIs upon his return from a break. Notably, Virat Kohli, presently enjoying family time in London, has surprisingly been included in the ODI squad despite earlier indications suggesting he might sit out the series.
In an intriguing development reported by Cricbuzz following the squad announcement, it has been revealed that Kohli has expressed his readiness to collaborate with Gambhir despite their past disagreements during IPL encounters. The former Indian captain has assured BCCI officials that any prior differences will not hinder their professional rapport moving forward.
“Kohli is believed to have stated that previous issues will not affect their professional relationship in the dressing room. Following the (T20) World Cup final in Barbados, discussions were reportedly held on the matter. Kohli, who, like Gambhir, is from Delhi, assured the concerned parties that he recognises both are working towards the country’s interests and is ready to move on from earlier disagreements,” the Cricbuzz report stated.
Initially, it was anticipated that Kohli would opt out of the Sri Lanka series, alongside Rohit. However, following Gambhir’s expressed preference to include both senior players in the international fixtures, discussions were initiated with board officials, leading to their subsequent agreement to participate. Nevertheless, there was a mutual understanding to rest key pacer Jasprit Bumrah during this campaign.
