A cloud of concern has settled over Indian cricket despite a significant ODI series victory against South Africa. Reports suggest a growing rift between Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, impacting dressing room harmony. While India secured a 1-0 lead in the series with a 17-run win, the atmosphere is reportedly tense, overshadowing the on-field success.
The recent triumph offered a much-needed morale boost following a disappointing series loss to Australia and a whitewash in South Africa. The return of veteran batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had revitalized the ODI squad, with both players delivering impressive performances, including centuries. Their presence had re-energized fans and rekindled excitement around the team.
However, behind the scenes, sources indicate a strained relationship between Gambhir and the senior players. A report claims that Gambhir and Kohli, despite past public reconciliations, are barely interacting during the current series. Similarly, Rohit Sharma’s relationship with chief selector Ajit Agarkar is also rumored to be strained, evident during the recent Australia ODIs.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly displeased with the intensified social media criticism directed at Gambhir, often fueled by fan bases of Kohli and Rohit. This external pressure is believed to be exacerbating the internal discomfort.
In response to the escalating tensions, the BCCI is considering a high-level meeting in Raipur or Visakhapatnam, the venues for upcoming ODIs. This intervention aims to address the future of the senior players and understand the root causes of the reported discord. Further fueling speculation, Gambhir is alleged to have denied Kohli and Rohit an additional net session before a recent match and reportedly arrived separately from the senior players, hinting at a widening divide.