Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia has addressed ongoing speculation surrounding the relationship between India’s star batter Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir, firmly rejecting claims of discord between the two. In recent months, several reports suggested that the duo did not share cordial relations, amid talk of a generational shift in India’s ODI setup ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Speaking on theIndia Todaypodcast, Saikia categorically stated that he has never witnessed any conflict between Kohli and Gambhir. Emphasising their shared commitment to the national team, he said the two maintain a healthy and respectful working relationship whenever they represent the country.
The rumours emerged at a time when the Indian team management appeared to be moving towards a transition phase, with Shubman Gill appointed as the new ODI captain and Rohit Sharma replaced ahead of the Australia tour. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had also earlier indicated that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were non-committal about featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup, further fuelling speculation about the future of the senior batters.
However, both Kohli and Rohit responded to the changing landscape by featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, signalling their willingness to adapt and remain competitive. Their decision paid dividends, as the duo went on to play crucial roles in India’s ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand, showcasing strong form and intent.
Saikia also addressed rumours suggesting that the BCCI or team management were attempting to push Kohli out of the national setup. Dismissing the claims, he asserted that no authority could force a player of Kohli’s stature to take decisions about his career, underlining the respect Kohli commands within Indian cricket.
On the field, Kohli has silenced critics with his performances. Over his last seven ODI innings, the former India captain has amassed 616 runs at an extraordinary average of 123.2 and a strike rate of 108.64, including three centuries and three fifties. Kohli is next expected to feature when India tour England for an ODI series in July 2026.
