In a recent press conference, new coach Gautam Gambhir and Selection Committee Chairman Ajit Agarkar made significant announcements about the future of Indian cricket. Gambhir, who recently took over as the coach, will begin his journey with Team India in the limited-overs series against Sri Lanka starting on July 27. They discussed team selection and future plans, emphasizing that players can no longer choose which series they want to play in.
New Selection Policies: Gambhir and Agarkar made it clear that managing the workload of batters and bowlers will be different. "For a bowler like Bumrah, workload management is crucial. We might rest him for certain series. However, if a batter is in good form, he has to play all matches," Gambhir stated. He also mentioned that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will only play in two formats going forward, aiming to have them participate in as many matches as possible. If their fitness permits, they are expected to play in the 2027 World Cup as well.
Hardik Pandya's Fitness Issues: Explaining the decision to appoint Suryakumar Yadav as the captain for the Sri Lanka series instead of Hardik Pandya, Gambhir noted, "A captain needs to play all matches." Hardik's fitness issues have caused him to miss several matches in the past. Agarkar praised KL Rahul as an excellent ODI player, which is why he was chosen over Sanju Samson for the Sri Lanka tour. "We have many Tests coming up, and Rahul and Pant will be crucial. Therefore, Pant is the second keeper for the Lanka tour," Agarkar added.
On Relationship with Kohli: Addressing his relationship with Virat Kohli, Gambhir said, "I don't maintain a relationship with Kohli for TRP. Our bond is not for public display. It's a relationship between two mature individuals."
New Assistant Coaches: Gambhir confirmed the appointment of all-rounders Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches. He mentioned his long-term working relationship with both, having collaborated with them during his time as a mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders.