Team India Rift Deepens? Reports Claim Rohit–Kohli Not Speaking to Coach Gambhir; BCCI Calls Emergency Meeting

New Delhi: Even as India began the ODI series against South Africa with a hard-fought 17-run win in Ranchi, troubling reports from inside the dressing room have overshadowed the on-field success. A viral video and an explosive media report suggest that all is not well within the Indian camp, especially between senior players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

According to the report, both Rohit and Kohli were seen maintaining distance from Gambhir in Ranchi. The video shows Kohli clearly ignoring the head coach, while Rohit appeared to be engaged in a heated exchange with him. The BCCI, reportedly concerned about the deteriorating environment in the ODI squad, is now considering a major meeting in Raipur or Visakhapatnam during the remaining matches of the series.

ODI Team Dynamics Under Strain

Sources claim that while the Test and T20 dressing rooms remain stable, the ODI setup has undergone a drastic shift with the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Their presence is said to have changed the power balance inside the team, leading to what insiders describe as a “power tussle”.

The report states that the BCCI believes the personalities and long-standing differences between Gambhir and the two senior players are creating friction that could impact team performance.

Rift Rooted in the Past

The strained relationship between Gambhir and Kohli is no secret. Their clashes in the IPL — notably in 2013 and again in 2023 — remain etched in public memory. Though their rapport seemed to improve after Gambhir took over as head coach, that goodwill appears to be fading. As per sources, Kohli and Gambhir barely spoke during the ongoing South Africa ODI series.

Similarly, Rohit Sharma’s equation with chief selector Ajit Agarkar is reported to be uneasy. The tension reportedly intensified during the recent Australia tour, where issues concerning team decisions created divisions between senior players and the management.

BCCI Unhappy With Social Media Storm

Adding to the troubles, the BCCI is said to be displeased with the hostile online exchanges between fan groups. Posts targeting head coach Gambhir by die-hard supporters of Rohit and Kohli have created an uncomfortable atmosphere, prompting the board to intervene.

Ro-Ko Form Adds Fuel to the Fire

Ironically, the controversy emerges at a time when both Kohli and Rohit are in exceptional ODI form. Kohli has scored unbeaten knocks of 74 and 135, while Rohit has contributed 73, 121 and 57 in recent matches. Their strong performances, however, have reportedly widened the divide within the dressing room instead of easing tensions.

A Crucial Decision Looms

The BCCI is expected to hold a closed-door meeting to discuss the future of the senior players in the ODI setup and resolve the internal power struggle. Whether the meeting takes place in Raipur or Visakhapatnam, its outcome could shape the direction of Indian cricket in the coming months.