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Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has expressed unwavering support for the senior batting duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, despite recent concerns surrounding their form. The upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia holds significant importance, particularly in light of India's disappointing 3-0 loss to New Zealand at home, which has impacted their World Test Championship final qualification hopes.
Both Rohit and Kohli have faced scrutiny after struggling to consistently perform in the recent home season, registering only one half-century each in a combined ten innings against New Zealand and Bangladesh. Rohit managed a meager 133 runs in those innings, averaging a paltry 13.30, while Kohli fared slightly better with 192 runs at an average of 21.33. The fact that India suffered a Test series loss at home for the first time in 12 years, including a humiliating 3-0 whitewash, has intensified the discussion surrounding their form.
However, Gambhir dismisses any concerns regarding the duo's form, highlighting their resilience and past achievements. He asserts that both Rohit and Kohli are exceptionally tough individuals who have made significant contributions to Indian cricket and are determined to continue achieving success in the future. He emphasizes the importance of their unwavering passion and desire to achieve more, emphasizing that the hunger within the dressing room, particularly after the recent series setback, is a positive indicator.
While questions about Kohli's form have been more prominent, Rohit started the year strongly with two Test centuries against England. However, Kohli missed that entire series due to injury and last scored a Test century 16 months ago in the West Indies. Over the past five years, Kohli's batting average has dipped significantly, with only two centuries from 60 innings, averaging under 32. This decline has lowered his overall Test average from nearly 55 in November 2019 to 47.83.
The age of Kohli (36) and Rohit (37) has also sparked discussions about the inevitable transition of the Indian Test team. With veteran bowlers R Ashwin (38) and Ravindra Jadeja (turning 36 next month) also in the team, Gambhir was asked about his perspective on this phase. However, he dismisses the idea of a transition, focusing solely on the upcoming series in Australia. He emphasizes the determination and hunger within the team, stating that the players are still capable of achieving great things for the nation.
Looking back at the recent home series loss to New Zealand, Gambhir acknowledges that India was outplayed in all aspects of the game, but he refrains from making excuses. He accepts the criticism and emphasizes the team's commitment to improving and learning from their mistakes. He highlights the importance of preparation and experience, particularly for the upcoming series in Australia. Gambhir believes that with ten days of dedicated preparation, the team will be in a good position to challenge for victory in Australia.
He also emphasizes the value of the team's experienced players, who have extensive experience in Australian conditions. Their guidance and knowledge will be crucial for the younger players in the squad. Gambhir is confident that the team will be ready to compete from the first ball of the series, with a focus on utilizing their experience and preparation to achieve success in a highly competitive environment.
Source: 'They are incredibly tough' - Gambhir backs Kohli and Rohit