Team India is set to play three ODIs and three T20 matches against Sri Lanka on Sri Lankan soil. Suryakumar Yadav will captain the T20 series, while Rohit Sharma will lead the ODI team. This tour is significant for former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir, as he will begin his tenure as head coach with this series.
Before departing for Sri Lanka, Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir held a press conference in Mumbai, accompanied by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Both addressed questions related to Indian cricket, including inquiries about star players like Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav. Here are seven key takeaways from the press conference.
Will Rohit and Virat Play the 2027 World Cup?
Gambhir stated that if Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma maintain their fitness, they could play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Gambhir said, “I believe they have shown what they can do on the big stage, be it the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup. Both players have a lot of cricket left in them. The Champions Trophy is coming, a significant Test series in Australia is on the horizon. They will be motivated for the Champions Trophy, and if they keep their fitness, they can play the 2027 World Cup.”
Was Jadeja Dropped?
Ravindra Jadeja has not been included in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. On this matter, Agarkar said, “I think we should have clarified this when we announced the team. It made no sense to select both Axar and Jadeja, as one of them would be on the bench anyway. Jadeja has not been dropped; he has been rested, with many Test series coming up, in most of which he will play.”
Gill as a Three-Format Player?
Shubman Gill has been appointed vice-captain for both the ODI and T20 series against Sri Lanka. Chief selector Agarkar said that Gill is seen as a player for all three formats. Agarkar stated, “Shubman Gill has shown a lot of qualities over the past year, and that’s what we hear from the dressing room. He has leadership potential, and we want to give him experience.”
Why Hardik Was Not Made Captain and His Fitness?
Hardik Pandya was not made the T20 captain and was also stripped of vice-captaincy. Agarkar explained, “Suryakumar Yadav was made captain because he is one of the best T20 batsmen. You want a captain who plays all matches. Hardik Pandya’s fitness has been a challenge. He is a crucial player, but his fitness is a concern.” Agarkar added, “It’s tough for selectors/coaches to play him in every match. We wanted a captain who is available for all games. Surya has all the qualities to succeed. We also believe we can manage Hardik better. We saw what he can do with both bat and ball during the World Cup. We have discussed this with him.”
When Will Mohammed Shami Return?
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has been out of action for a while. Agarkar said Shami has started bowling in the nets and may be available for the Test series against Bangladesh in September. “He has started bowling. The first Test is on September 19. The goal has always been for him to return by then. I need to speak with the NCA staff to see if he can return for the Bangladesh series,” Agarkar added.
Why Were Ruturaj and Abhishek Left Out?
The Indian selectors made some surprising decisions for the Sri Lanka tour. Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad were not included in either squad. Agarkar explained, “We had the opportunity to give some of these players a chance during the Zimbabwe series, which went well. If players tomorrow lose form or get injured, we have enough depth. Rinku missing out on the World Cup is an example. He performed well in T20s before the World Cup, but sometimes that’s how it is. Unfortunately, it’s tough to fit everyone into a 15-man squad.”
What Are Gambhir’s Relations with Virat?
Gambhir and Kohli have had a contentious relationship, often clashing during the IPL. However, they will work together on the Sri Lanka tour. Gambhir said his relationship with star batsman Virat Kohli is personal and not for TRP. “My relationship with Virat Kohli is between us and not for TRP. We’ve had many discussions, and everyone has the right to fight for their jersey. We have a great relationship; he is a world-class athlete, and we respect each other a lot. We chat and message, focusing on making 140 crore Indians proud,” Gambhir stated.
The Indian team will kick off the Sri Lanka tour on July 27 with a three-match T20 series. The first T20 is on July 27, the second on July 28, and the final T20 on July 30. All matches will be held in Pallekele at 7 PM IST. Following the T20 series, there will be a three-match ODI series. The first ODI is on August 2, followed by the other two ODIs on August 4 and 7. All three ODIs will be played at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium at 2:30 PM IST.
