'Gambhir Was Categorical': Rohit, Kohli Exited Tests As Coach Wanted Fresh Faces

'Gambhir Was Categorical': Rohit, Kohli Exited Tests As Coach Wanted Fresh Faces

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News18.com

Last Updated: May 13, 2025, 08:53 IST

A report indicates Gautam Gambhir played a major role in Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli quitting Test cricket ahead of England tour.

(From left) Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli (PTI Photo)

The sudden exit of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli might have come as a surprise to many but if a report is to be believed, the writing was on the wall for the duo following India’s slump towards the end of the previous ICC World Test Championship cycle. Both Rohit and Kohli battled for form as India suffered historic clean sweep at home to New Zealand before losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia which ended their chances of qualifying for the WTC final.

Gambhir, as per a report in news agency PTI, had categorically mentioned he wants new faces for the next WTC cycle and his first aim was to put an end to the star culture in the Indian team.

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“The Gautam Gambhir era begins now. He was categorical that during the next WTC cycle, India need to have fresh faces," a BCCI told the news agency on the condition of anonymity.

Gambhir’s objectives aligned with that of BCCI selection committee head Ajit Agarkar.

“Everyone, associated with decision making knew where Gambhir stood in terms of carrying seniors in the longest format. Obviously his and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar’s thoughts aligned," the source added.

The development is being seen as Gambhir’s growing influence within the setup. In the past, it’s been the captain who has had the final say in matters of the team. However, with the retirement of two senior players, the coach has become the most influential member.

As per the report, Gambhir had asked the BCCI to hand empower him suitably so that “debacle like Border-Gavaskar Trophy and New Zealand series at home isn’t repeated anymore."

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Both Rohit and Kohli took to social media to announce the end of their respective Test career.

The selection committee is set to meet later this month to pick India’s squad for the five-match Test series in England which will kickstart the next WTC cycle. Shubman Gill is leading the race to be named as the next Test captain with Jasprit Bumrah reportedly opting out.

First Published: May 13, 2025, 08:53 IST

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