'Not about individual performances...': Gautam Gambhir on comeback of Rohit-Kohli
What's the story
Gautam Gambhir, the Indian men's cricket team head coach, recently opened up on the ODI series defeat to Australia Down Under. The series, which marked Shubman Gill's captaincy debut in the format, ended in a 1-2 loss for the Men in Blue. Despite Rohit Sharma being the 'Player of the Series' after being the top scorer and Virat Kohli scoring over 70 runs after two ducks, Gambhir emphasized that individual performances shouldn't overshadow team results.
Coach's perspective
'I can be very happy with them'
In an interview with bcci.tv, Gambhir said he appreciates individual successes but never loses sight of the bigger picture. He said, "I've always believed that it's not about individual performances. I can be very happy with them, and I will always remain happy with individual performances." However, he added that in his view, he can't celebrate a series loss.
Coach's duty
'Never celebrate a series loss'
Gambhir highlighted his moral responsibility, saying, "As a player, I can appreciate individuals, but I think it is my moral responsibility that we as a nation, and we as individuals, should never celebrate a series loss." He said this after India's ODI series defeat against Australia. The comments were made without directly naming Rohit or Kohli.
Run
Only active format for Kohli, Rohit
Both Rohit and Kohli have retired from T20I and Test cricket. The duo was impressive in the recent ODI series against Australia Down Under. Rohit was named Player of the Series for scoring a half-century and a century, while Kohli made a strong comeback with a risk-free 74* in the Sydney ODI. The latter earlier recorded successive ducks. Although India lost the ODI series, these performances have sparked speculation about their potential participation in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.
Learning opportunity
India won T20I series against Australia
Despite the ODI series loss, India won the three-match T20 International series against Australia 2-1. Gambhir highlighted this victory as an opportunity for learning and growth. He said, "Ultimately, we are representing the country. Yes, the T20I series was different - we won the series, there were a lot of positives - but also a lot of learning."