India batting coach dismisses Kohli-Gambhir rift speculation

By Rohan Gupta — 17 July 2026 — 4 min read

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has addressed and dismissed ongoing speculation regarding a potential rift between star batter Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Kotak firmly stated that there is no communication breakdown between the two prominent figures, contrary to various rumours circulating.

The speculation gained traction on social media following visuals from India’s training sessions during the ODI series against England, which appeared to show limited interaction between Kohli and Gambhir. This discussion intensified after Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket last year. One instance highlighted was ahead of the first ODI at Edgbaston, where Kohli was seen batting in the nets while Gambhir observed from a close distance without engaging in conversation. Meanwhile, Kotak was observed speaking with the former India captain, further fuelling online discussions.

However, Kotak made it clear that the situation was normal and found suggestions of a need for a mediator between Kohli and Gambhir humorous. He emphasized that Kohli and Gambhir are in regular communication, stating, “Virat and Gautam would’ve spoken about 10 times today. I don’t think that needs any bridge.” This statement directly refutes claims of a strained relationship or a need for external intervention to facilitate communication between them.

Clarifying coaching interactions

Kotak also provided insight into his own discussions with Kohli during practice sessions. He explained that before Kohli went out to bat, they had a conversation. Kotak, as a batting coach, generally believes that unless a player like Kohli feels something specific or spots a major issue, his batting technique should not be disturbed with excessive advice. He noted that Kohli had specifically asked him about certain aspects, particularly concerning his footwork, both before and after net sessions.

This approach aligns with a philosophy that unless a legend like Kohli actively seeks advice, unsolicited input should be avoided. Kotak reiterated that his discussions with Kohli are typically focused on specific technical points, such as footwork, and are initiated by Kohli himself. He mentioned that these conversations occurred during the team’s net session at Sophia Gardens on the eve of the second ODI against England.

Kotak expressed his bewilderment regarding the origin of the rumours, stating, “Apart from that, I don’t know where the rumours come from, but they do.” He asserted that the idea of a communication breakdown is unfounded, despite what might be discussed in certain circles of Indian cricket.

Addressing Rohit Sharma’s form

Beyond the speculation surrounding Kohli and Gambhir, Kotak also offered support for Rohit Sharma, who has faced difficulties with his batting form in the ongoing ODI series against England. Rohit’s struggles were evident in the second ODI in Cardiff, a match England won by four wickets, levelling the three-match series 1-1. In that game, Rohit scored 26 runs off 47 balls, being dismissed while attempting a sweep against Will Jacks, after managing only 10 runs off 18 balls in the powerplay despite India reaching 61/1.

Rohit has not had a strong performance record in ODIs this year, having scored only one half-century in eight matches and maintaining an average of 30.12. With discussions emerging about whether selectors might consider alternatives for the former India captain ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, Kotak was asked if Rohit’s position would be scrutinised after the series decider at Lord’s. The batting coach dismissed such concerns, indicating that there is no pressure on the experienced opener.

Kotak commented on Rohit’s stature as a player, stating, “I don’t think a player as big as Rohit can feel the pressure. He’s too good a player to feel that. Yes he hasn’t scored in two games. I don’t think that makes any difference. But today also it looked like he’ll get a good innings but that’s okay [that he didn’t get a big score].”

In the second ODI, England successfully chased 234, with Joe Root anchoring their innings with an unbeaten 99 runs off 133 balls. Root shared a crucial 72-run partnership with Will Jacks, after England had been at 125/5. Gus Atkinson remained unbeaten on 23 as England reached their target with nearly six overs remaining. Earlier in the match, India was restricted to 233 in 44 overs despite half-centuries from Virat Kohli (65) and Shreyas Iyer (66). Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson each took three wickets, while Saqib Mahmood claimed two. The series is set to be decided in the third and final ODI at Lord’s on July 19.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter