Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir's first meeting since ODI captaincy switch results in intense chat

By Admin

17 Oct, 2025

India’s white-ball preparations for the upcoming ODI series against Australia took an intriguing turn on Thursday as former India captain Rohit Sharma and current head coach Gautam Gambhir were seen engaged in an intense on-field discussion during the team’s first training session at the WACA ground in Perth. This marked their first meeting since the captaincy reshuffle that saw Shubman Gill take over the reins of India’s ODI team.

Putting an end to widespread social media speculation about potential awkwardness between the two, Rohit and Gambhir appeared to be in deep conversation near the boundary ropes after the nets session. Rohit had earlier spent nearly 30 minutes facing throwdowns and spinners before joining Gambhir, suggesting that the discussion was both planned and significant.

While the specifics of their exchange remain undisclosed, the prolonged nature of the chat hinted at strategic planning ahead of the three-match ODI series, which begins on October 29. Many believe that with this possibly being Rohit’s final tour of Australia in Indian colours, topics like team balance, role clarity, and transition planning could have been central to the discussion.

Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have already retired from Tests and T20Is, hit the nets soon after arriving in Australia. Their experience will be crucial as India navigates the blend of youth and experience under Shubman Gill’s leadership. Gambhir, known for his tactical acumen and no-nonsense approach, has emphasized open communication with senior players as India enters a new era in white-ball cricket.

The relationship between Rohit and Gambhir also adds an interesting layer to this development. Having shared the dressing room during India’s successful white-ball campaigns in the early 2010s, both men understand each other’s mindset and approach to the game. Their latest conversation could hold key insights into how India plans to balance the presence of veterans with emerging talents.

The Indian squad, which arrived in Perth in two batches earlier this week, will have two more practice sessions before the series opener. Virat Kohli looked in fine touch at the nets and later shared a lighthearted moment with pacer Arshdeep Singh and bowling coach Morne Morkel, showcasing the team’s relaxed yet focused environment.

With three ODIs and five T20Is on this tour, India’s management is clearly focused on maintaining a balance between immediate performance and long-term goals. For now, all eyes are on the Gambhir-Rohit dynamic   a partnership that could play a vital role in shaping India’s white-ball roadmap in the months to come.