Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed confidence in the form of star batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, despite their recent struggles against spin bowling. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the team’s departure for the Test series against Australia, Gambhir dismissed concerns over the duo’s form, emphasizing their hunger to perform.
“I have no concerns over Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s form. The hunger in that dressing room is important for me, and I feel there is a lot of hunger,” Gambhir said.
Gambhir’s defense of Sharma and Kohli comes after the team’s humiliating Test series loss against New Zealand at home. Both batters struggled to score runs, leading to criticism from experts and fans alike. However, Gambhir believes that the duo will bounce back in Australia.
“There are incredible people in the dressing room who have done a great job,” Gambhir said. “I am not feeling the heat. It’s an honor and privilege to coach the Indian team.”
Gambhir also addressed the team’s options for the opener’s slot, with KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran being considered alongside Sharma. He also confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side in the series-opening Perth Test if Sharma is unavailable for personal reasons.
The first Test between India and Australia starts in Perth on November 22. Gambhir expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well, despite the challenges they face.
“I am not thinking about transition but the five Test matches. Transition or no transition, if that has to happen, will happen, but I see some incredibly tough characters in that dressing room who are hungry to do well,” Gambhir said.
