There has been strong speculation lately, especially on social media, that the relationship between the coach and the two senior pros has completely broken down and that they cannot talk to each other. With both Rohit and Kohli focusing exclusively on the over-50 internationals in the twilight of their careers, they are largely in the spotlight when India play this format. Kotak denied claims of any division between the three.
“She [Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli] discuss with Gautam about the ODI format, about the matches we have and about our plans to go to South Africa [for the 2027 World Cup]. Most of the time I’m there, and when I listen, they definitely share their experiences. I always see them talking,” Kotak said in Rajkot ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand.
He further highlighted the proactive role played by both veterans in shaping the strategy, highlighting their professionalism and leadership.
“If they feel it is necessary, they go a few days in advance. And they practice because they have also been such excellent players for India. They now know that they are playing one format, and I am sure they are thinking about that one format. They want India to win everywhere when they are there, and they perform,” Kotak added.
The duo of Rohit and Virat are playing only in the ODIs after retiring from T20I and Tests and are managing their workload smartly, the batting coach said.
“So in terms of planning and everything, they are someone who is brilliant. They know what they have to do. They know what their body needs, not just the batting power, even the fitness, whatever requirements they have. They are solid professionals. So I don’t think they need to be told to do this or that. In fact, the amount of experience they have allows them to share a lot of ideas with other players,” Kotak concludes.
After a convincing win in the first ODI against the Kiwis, Team India will look to clinch the series by winning the second ODI scheduled in Rajkot. Virat Kohli was named player of the match in the first ODI for his knock of 93 runs, while Rohit had failed to impress after being dismissed for 26 runs off 29 balls.
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