BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla recently dismissed rumors of a rift between Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Addressing the speculation that emerged following India’s 1-3 loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Shukla downplayed any tensions, emphasising that both Rohit and Gambhir are focused on a bigger goal—guiding India to victory in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Despite reports of friction, the two were seen sharing a lighthearted moment ahead of the ODI series against England. A viral video captured Rohit joking during a team dinner, with Gambhir attentively listening and smiling throughout the conversation.
India is set to face England in the first ODI of the series at Nagpur’s Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced the inclusion of star spinner Varun Chakaravarthy in India’s squad for the three-match ODI series. Varun was in sensational form during the recently concluded five-match T20I series against England, where he claimed 14 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in Rajkot, earning him the Player of the Series award. He has now joined the squad in Nagpur.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rohit Sharma welcomed Varun’s addition, highlighting the team’s interest in exploring his potential in the ODI format. “I understand that his performances have come in T20 cricket, but he brings something unique. This series gives us an opportunity to see what he can do at this level,” Rohit was quoted as saying by the ICC.
(With ANI inputs)