Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed strong support for star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, set to begin on November 22 in Perth. Gambhir’s comments come in response to former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who recently raised concerns over Kohli and Sharma’s recent performance in the Test format, citing their limited centuries in the last five years as an issue.
Ponting had highlighted Kohli’s record of only three Test centuries in half a decade, questioning whether such statistics should be a concern for India’s top order. However, Gambhir, addressing the media before the team’s departure, shrugged off Ponting’s remarks, emphasizing Kohli and Sharma’s passion and dedication to Indian cricket.
Head Coach Gambhir dismisses concerns over Kohli and Sharma’s form, backs star players ahead of Australia series
“What does Ricky Ponting have to do with Indian cricket? He should be talking about Australia. Look, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still passionate about the game and want to achieve more. They are hungry for success and have done exceptionally well for the country over the years. Even the other players are doing a fine job, and I am sure we will improve as a group. I have no concerns regarding Virat and Rohit”, Gambhir said.
The Indian team is coming off a disappointing series loss to New Zealand, marking the first-ever Test series whitewash for India on home soil. Kohli managed only 93 runs in six innings, while Sharma scored 91, sparking criticism about the team’s form. Gambhir, however, reassured fans, voicing his confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back in the BGT series.
With Australia hosting the first match on November 22, Kohli, Sharma, and the rest of the Indian squad will aim to reclaim their form and perform strongly against a formidable Australian side.
