No Communication Breakdown Between Gambhir and Virat Kohli, Says Batting Coach

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has firmly dismissed speculation of a communication breakdown between senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir, stating that the leadership group remains united and fully focused on India’s long-term plans, including preparations for the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Addressing the media ahead of India’s second ODI against New Zealand, Kotak made it clear that both Kohli and Rohit continue to play a central role in shaping the team’s ODI strategy. He emphasised that the experienced duo are actively involved in discussions with the coaching staff and are aligned with the management’s vision.

According to Kotak, Kohli and Rohit, who are now concentrating on limited-overs cricket, are driven by a shared objective of ensuring India’s success whenever they are part of the squad. He noted that their vast experience makes them valuable contributors not just with the bat, but also in mentoring younger players and refining tactical approaches.

The batting coach said he regularly witnesses constructive exchanges between the senior batters and Gambhir, rejecting claims circulating on social media about internal discord. Kotak underlined that from his perspective inside the team environment, the conversations have been positive and productive, with a strong focus on improving performance in the ODI format and planning for future overseas tours, including South Africa.

Speculation around the relationship between Kohli, Rohit and the new coaching setup has intensified in recent months, particularly following India’s mixed results in Test cricket and the transition phase that saw both players step away from the red-ball format ahead of last year’s England tour. Kotak, however, insisted that such narratives are detached from the reality within the dressing room.

Beyond addressing rumours, Kotak also spoke about the evolving nature of ODI cricket. He said India would need to reassess its batting template after the conclusion of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, especially in light of recent changes to playing conditions. Under the revised rules, only one ball will be used from the 35th over onwards, a shift that could significantly influence scoring patterns and batting strategies.

Kotak observed that ODI cricket continues to differ markedly from T20 internationals, with 300-plus totals becoming increasingly common, particularly on Indian pitches. He stressed that adapting to the new ball rule will be crucial as India looks to balance aggression with consistency in the middle and death overs.

The former Saurashtra batter also backed Ravindra Jadeja, dismissing concerns about the all-rounder’s ODI form and future. Kotak said Jadeja remains fit, committed and impactful, adding that any player who continues to perform and enjoy the game would naturally want to keep contributing to the national side.

With the management projecting unity and clarity, India appear keen to keep distractions at bay as they fine-tune combinations and strategies for a packed international calendar and the next major global tournament.