Newly appointed India head coach Gautam Gambhir, who begins his tenure with the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka later this month, discussed his rapport with senior batsman Virat Kohli, emphasizing their strong off-field relationship and its continuity.
Speaking at his inaugural press conference as head coach, Gambhir described his dynamic with Kohli as "between two mature individuals," acknowledging its appeal for media ratings but emphasizing its private nature. He stated, "Good for the TRP, but my relationship is not public. What kind of relationship do I share with Virat Kohli, I think it is between two mature individuals."
"On the field, everyone has the right to fight for their team and jersey, striving for a victorious dressing room," Gambhir asserted. "But when representing India, you're representing 140 crore Indians, and I'm confident we'll be united in our efforts to make India proud."
He affirmed their strong personal bond off the field, stating, "I share a very good relationship off the field and we will continue to do that. But yes, to make it more public what kind of a relationship (we have) I think it is between two individuals."
Gambhir recalled past altercations with Kohli, including incidents during IPL matches when Gambhir was captain of Kolkata Knight Riders and later as mentor of Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2023. Despite animated exchanges, both maintained a friendly demeanor publicly during IPL 2024.
Reflecting on their interactions, Gambhir remarked, "How many chats have I had with him, after my announcement or before my announcement, during the games, after the games - I think sometimes just because we want headlines - it is not important. The most important thing right now is that we both have got to be working extremely hard to make India proud. And that is our job.
He praised Kohli as a consummate professional and exceptional athlete, expressing continued admiration for his abilities. "He is a thorough professional, he is a world-class athlete, he is a world-class player. I have always said that. I have huge respect for him as a player and it is going to continue. And hopefully we can work together really well," Gambhir said.
Read also | Joe Root Matches Williamson and Smith with 32nd Test Century
