India's head coach Gautam Gambhir during a press conference in Mumbai ahead of the team's departure to Australia. — AFP
India coach Gautam Gambhir on Monday expressed confidence in 'incredibly tough men' Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to silence their critics and regain form in Australia. Skipper Rohit and superstar batsman Kohli faced criticism after India suffered a humiliating 3-0 Test series defeat at home to New Zealand. Rohit managed 91 runs in three matches, while Kohli scored just 93.
Speaking just before India's departure for Australia for a high-stakes five-match Test series, Gambhir stated, 'I have no concerns for Virat and Rohit. They are incredibly tough men who have achieved a lot for Indian cricket and will continue to do so in the future.' Gambhir also responded to former Australia captain Ricky Ponting's comments about the long-term form of the two senior batsmen, asking, 'What does Ponting have to do with Indian cricket?'
Gambhir emphasized the team's eagerness to prove themselves after the New Zealand debacle, which marked only their second Test series whitewash at home. He believes the quicker pitches in Australia, compared to India's traditionally spin-friendly conditions, will be the biggest challenge. However, Gambhir is confident that his team, despite facing criticism, is ready to 'fire from ball one' in the series starting in Perth on November 22.
Meanwhile, Gambhir confirmed that pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will take over as captain if regular skipper Rohit is unavailable for the first Test in Perth on November 22. While Rohit is not currently with the squad, he has not been officially ruled out of the series opener. Gambhir provided an update on Rohit's status, stating, 'At the moment, there is no confirmation, but we will inform you of the exact situation. Hopefully, he will be available.'
Gambhir's announcement underscores the team's contingency plans as they prepare to face Australia, with Bumrah ready to step into the leadership role if needed. Following India's disappointing performance against New Zealand, the path to the WTC final has become challenging. With a 3-0 series whitewash, India must win the Australia series 4-0 to qualify for the World Test Championship final for the third consecutive time.
Despite the setbacks, Gambhir highlighted the strong relationship he maintains with team captain Rohit, stating, 'My relationship with Rohit has been incredible. Three Test matches before, we had an incredible test match in Kanpur as well. I know that we haven't played our best cricket, but it doesn't change anything.'
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