Gautam Gambhir gives Rohit Sharma a free hand to play his natural game, focus on present, not the future: Sources

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has given senior opener Rohit Sharma complete freedom to play his natural game, with the team management keen to provide the veteran batter with a relaxed mindset.

According to what sources have told Sports Tak, Gambhir's message to Rohit has been straightforward: the former Indian captain has contributed immensely to the team's success over the years, and the current coaching staff wants him to enjoy his cricket rather than burden himself with unnecessary pressure.

"Rohit has done a lot for this team and the country in white-ball cricket. The coach wants him to play the way he has played throughout his career and express himself freely," a source said ahead of the second ODI of the series against England.

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The thinking within the team management is that giving Rohit complete mental freedom will help get the best out of him. Rather than focusing on long-term questions surrounding his future, the emphasis is firmly on the present and maximising his impact whenever he takes the field.

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Sources added that the current approach is not linked to any discussion about Rohit's long-term future.

"Nobody knows what the future holds. The focus right now is on the present. The team management wants Rohit to have complete peace of mind so that he can give his best whenever he plays," the source added.

The move reflects the confidence coaching staff has in Rohit's experience and ability to influence matches at the highest level. By removing external pressure and allowing him to stick to his natural attacking style, the management believes India can continue to benefit from one of its most accomplished white-ball batters.

While there has been considerable speculation over the future of several senior players, the current message from the team management is one of trust and backing for Rohit Sharma as India prepares for its upcoming white-ball assignments.

“The way Rohit has been batting under pressure, it seems clear that he needs a bit of time and mental space rather than constant scrutiny. Players of his calibre often deliver their best when they are free from external pressure and allowed to trust their natural instincts. Instead of overanalysing every innings, it is important to back someone who has consistently delivered for India over the years. A relaxed and confident Rohit is capable of changing games on his own, and sometimes faith and patience are just as important as technical adjustments,” the source further added.