'Obviously, on...': India coach breaks silence on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's rift with Gautam Gambhir

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has clarified the recent rumours about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's rift with head coach Gautam Gambhir. He said that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are in regular communication with the team management, including head coach Gautam Gambhir, and actively contribute to planning for the future.

Lack of communication?

There had been reports suggesting a rift between the head coach and the two veterans, but Kotak confirmed that these claims are not true. Both Rohit and Virat are fully involved in discussions, sharing ideas and helping shape strategies for upcoming tours.

Kotak on Rohit, Virat rift with Gambhir

With the two players now focusing only on ODIs after retiring from Tests and T20Is, Kotak also revealed that they have been part of planning for the India tour of South Africa, where the next World Cup will take place in 22 months. Kotak himself is part of these conversations and has first-hand knowledge of the planning process.

ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar brutally trolls England, labels them as 'paper tigers' after humiliating Ashes defeat

ALSO READ: India coach explains why Ayush Badoni received maiden international call-up ahead of 2nd ODI vs NZ

"They discuss with Gautam (Gambhir). They discuss with Gautam about the ODI format, about the matches we have, and about our plans going to South Africa. Most of the time I'm there, and whenever I'm listening, they definitely share their experience. I always see them talking," Kotak told the media ahead of second ODI.

Kotak on Virat and Gambhir's rift rumours

Kotak also spoke about how Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli align with the team management’s plans, even though they now play only one format and join the squad after long breaks. He specifically addressed the rumours that Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir do not speak to each other, calling that perception completely false.

"Obviously, on social media, you see a lot of things, which I try to avoid seeing," he noted.

Why there were talks about head coach's rift with Rohit and Virat

The rumours about the head coach’s relationship with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had been widely talked about in the media and on social media, especially given their history. The situation drew even more attention after both Rohit and Virat announced their retirement from Test cricket, a decision that came under circumstances that were never clearly explained.

Asked if there is communication with the two from the team management, Kotak remarked, "See, both of them are so senior and so experienced. They definitely make plans. They want to practice at all the venues.

"If they feel they need to, they'll go a couple of days in advance. And they practise because they both also been such an outstanding players for India. They know now they're playing one format and I'm sure they are thinking that one format, they want India to win everywhere when they are there and they are performing.

"So planning-wise and all, they are someone who are brilliant. They know what they need to do. They know what their body needs, not only betting, even the fitness, whatever requirements they have.

"They are thorough professionals. So I don't think they need to be told that they need to do this or that. In fact, the amount of experience they have, they can share a lot of ideas with other players and they do discuss."

Rohit and Virat's upcoming outing

Rohit and Virat will now be seen featuring in the second ODI against New Zealand which will take place at iSaurashtra Cricket Association Stadiumn Rajkot.