The strained relationship between India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has taken an interesting turn in recent weeks. Instead of maintaining distance, as insiders believed was the case early in the ODI series against South Africa, Gambhir is now increasingly seen engaging with the senior duo and attempting to keep equations balanced.
Sources told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that Gambhir now finds himself in a position where the strong and consistent performances of ROKO (Rohit–Kohli) have made it difficult for him to remain completely detached. With both seniors scoring runs and delivering results, the head coach has been compelled to acknowledge their contributions, often with a brief “well played” or short conversations on the sidelines.
Interaction Improves, but Warmth Still Missing
While these interactions appear formal rather than warm, observers believe the dynamic within the team management is gradually shifting, driven not by personal comfort, but by professional necessity.
However, sources emphasise that both Virat and Rohit have taken a firm stance: they will speak to Gambhir only when spoken to. Outside of necessary professional exchanges, the senior duo remains extremely reserved, avoiding informal conversation or unnecessary interaction with the head coach.
The body language inside the dressing room, according to those aware of the situation, reflects a strictly formal and transactional relationship. The seniors remain fully committed to performing on the field, but personal rapport between the parties is minimal.
Concerns Over Dressing-Room Atmosphere
A section within the team is concerned about how such an atmosphere has been allowed to persist in an Indian dressing room that is expected to foster positivity and high performance. There is growing unease that unresolved interpersonal dynamics at the top could eventually affect team morale and long-term stability.
Road to 2027 World Cup Raises Stakes
With the 2027 ODI World Cup already part of long-term planning—and both Kohli and Sharma committed to continuing until the next ICC 50-over event, the pressure is mounting on Gambhir to ensure harmony and create a competitive yet cohesive environment.
For now, he appears to be walking a tightrope: balancing strong personalities, expectations, and the responsibility of keeping India on a winning track.
As one source summed it up: “Can India afford this sort of environment?”
