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BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently addressed the long-standing speculation regarding the dynamic between Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Their relationship has historically been viewed as 'bitter-sweet', while the two were once the backbone of India’s batting lineup during Gambhir's playing days, their high-profile disagreements during the Indian Premier League (IPL) created a narrative of friction. This history led to widespread surprise and skepticism when Gambhir was officially appointed as the national team's head coach.
BCCI on rumoured rift between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir
While the pair appeared to be in sync during the early stages of Gambhir’s tenure, rumors of a rift resurfaced following Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket after a disappointing series in Australia. Many observers theorized that internal tensions might have influenced the decision. However, Saikia dismissed these claims, clarifying that the two professionals maintain a cordial and healthy working relationship, effectively putting an end to the rumors of a fallout.
“I have never seen them fighting. They are in a very good cordial relationship,” Saikia told India Today.
Devajit was also asked about the highly publicised disagreement between the two during the 2023 IPL, Saikia addressed the incident directly. He sought to provide context to the past friction, aiming to clarify how that specific moment fits into their current professional dynamic.
“I haven't seen it. IPL? Maybe I didn't see that match because I was with them when they were representing the country. So, IPL: watching every match is not possible,” he added.
Saikia further addressed the persistent whispers suggesting that Gautam Gambhir is seeking to phase Virat Kohli out of the national squad. He firmly dismissed these claims as mere perception, pointing out that Kohli remains an integral and constant presence in the team. By emphasizing that both the coach and the star batter are working toward the same goals, Saikia argued that the actual team selections and results should be enough to debunk any theories of exclusion.
Have you seen Virat Kohli not being a part of the team?: Devajit Saikia
He reinforced this by highlighting Kohli's status as a legend of the game, asserting that no one—including the head coach or the board, could force a player of his caliber into a decision like retirement. Saikia made it clear that while rumors often swirl in the media, such discussions have never taken place in official BCCI meetings, reaffirming the board's commitment to respecting the personal career choices of its senior players.
“That perception might be there, but Virat Kohli is always in the team. Gautam Gambhir is also there. We see the results. Have you seen Virat Kohli not being a part of the team?,” the 56-year-old further stated.
He further noted that Kohli has earned the right to decide his future on his own terms. By reinforcing that the BCCI’s role is to support rather than dictate, Saikia aimed to quiet any lingering theories that external pressure or management friction had forced the former captain's hand.
“Nobody can force a player of the stature of Virat Kohli to change and make a decision. He is at that level. He is not an ordinary player; he is a legend in Indian cricket. Nobody can force him to make a decision unless he chooses to. The board will not interfere in any player's career,” Saikia concluded.
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