Gambhir Stern on Rohit Kohli Comeback After ODI Series Defeat

Gautam Gambhir stated that India should never celebrate a series loss despite individual performances from Kohli, Rohit.

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has taken a firm stance following the team’s 2-1 ODI series loss to Australia. He asserted that a series defeat should never be celebrated, even amidst commendable individual performances. The series marked Shubman Gill’s debut as ODI captain and saw the return of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

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Rohit Sharma was named ‘Player of the Series’ for his consistent batting, including a century in the final match. Virat Kohli also scored a fifty after initial struggles. Despite these individual successes, Gambhir focused on the team’s overall result.

In an interview with bcci.tv, Gambhir explained his philosophy. He did not single out any specific players. “…I’ve always believed that it’s not about individual performances. I can be very happy with them, and I will always remain happy with individual performances.

“But ultimately, it’s the loss of an ODI series – that’s the bottom line – and I can never celebrate a series loss as a coach,” he asserted.

Gambhir On Coach’s Moral Responsibility

Gambhir elaborated that he sees this as a core responsibility. He emphasized the importance of the team’s result over personal milestones.

“As a player, I can appreciate individuals, but as a coach, I think it is my moral responsibility that we as a nation, and we as individuals, should never, never celebrate a series loss,” Gambhir said.

The ODI series was followed by a T20I series, which India won 2-1. Gambhir acknowledged the victory but also pointed to lessons from that win.

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“Ultimately, we are representing the country. Yes, the T20 series was different – we won the series, there were a lot of positives – but also a lot of learning,” he said.