India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has come to the defense of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma following recent criticism from former Australia captain Ricky Ponting. Ponting had questioned Kohli’s form, suggesting that any other player would have been dropped from the team after scoring just two centuries in five years.
In a press conference before leaving for Australia for the five-match Test series, Gambhir was asked about the struggles of the senior players. He dismissed Ponting’s comments, stating that Ponting has no role in Indian cricket. Gambhir also highlighted the passion and dedication of both Kohli and Rohit to perform well for the team.
Gautam Gambhir’s Press Conference Remarks
“What does Ponting have to do with Indian cricket? He should focus on Australian cricket. I have no concerns whatsoever about Virat and Rohit. They are incredibly tough players who have achieved a lot for Indian cricket and will continue to do so in the future. What’s most important is that they still work hard, are passionate, and want to achieve even more. The hunger in the dressing room is crucial for me and the entire team, especially after what happened in the last series,” Gambhir said during the press conference.
Kohli and Rohit’s Struggles in 2024
Both Kohli and Rohit have struggled in Tests this year, with their form coming under intense scrutiny following India’s 0-3 loss to New Zealand. Rohit has managed only 588 runs from 11 matches in 2024, averaging 29.40, with two centuries and two fifties. Kohli, on the other hand, has scored just 250 runs in six matches (12 innings) at an average of 22.72, with only one half-century.
Their lack of form is a significant concern as India prepares for the upcoming series against Australia, where India must win 4-1 to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final on their own. The duo’s performance will be crucial for India’s chances of making it to their third consecutive WTC final.