CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Gautam Gambhir has stated that there are no issues between him and Virat Kohli, and he has had conversations with the star batter since being appointed as coach of the Indian team earlier this month. He also clarified that their past confrontations, captured by cameras during IPL games, were a result of the competitive nature of the sport, as every player wants to return to his dressing room as a winner. “I share a good relationship with Virat,” he quipped.
When reminded about their history of face-offs, the new coach said, “(It was) good for the TRPs,” and went on to add that his relationship is not for public consumption. “It’s between two mature individuals.”
He strove to explain the point stating that those incidents will have no bearing on their equation while representing the country. “On the field, everyone has got the right to fight for their own jersey and come back to a winning dressing room. But at the moment, we’re representing India, representing 140 crore Indians and I’m sure we’re going to be on the same page and try to make India proud. I share a very good relationship off the field and will continue to do that. But yes, to make it more public what kind of a relationship… I think it’s between two individuals.”
Specifically asked, if he has had conversations with Kohli, Gambhir replied that he has chatted with him. “I’ve had a lot of chats with him. We’ve shared messages. It’s not important what we discussed, how many chats have I had with him, after my announcement (as coach) or before my announcement or during the game, after the games. Sometimes, just because we want headlines, it’s not important. Right now, the most important thing is we both are going to be working extremely hard to make India proud. And that’s our job.”
Gambhir was also all praise for Kohli the batter. “He’s a thorough professional, a world class athlete and a world class player. I’ve always said that. I’ve got huge respect for him as a player and it’s going to continue. And hopefully we can work together really well.”
Asked how long he saw Kohli and Rohit Sharma continuing to play for India, he said it was up to the players. “I can’t say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately it’s up to them, how much can they contribute to the team’s success. Ultimately it’s the team that is important. But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot (left). They’re still world class players.”