“It’s good for TRP, but my relationship is not public,” Gambhir said when asked about Kohli at his first press conference since assuming his new role on Monday. “What kind of relationship do I share with Virat Kohli? I think it’s a relationship between two mature individuals.
“On the pitch, everyone has the right to fight for their team, their jersey and come back from the dressing room victorious. But now, I think you are representing India, you are representing 1.4 billion Indians and I am sure we will have the same mindset and try to make India proud.
“I think we have a really good relationship off the pitch and we will continue to have that. But to make it more public, I think it’s a relationship between two people.”
Gambhir said he and Kohli had discussed the matter recently but did not want to reveal any details.
“It doesn’t matter how many times I talk to him before or after I make the announcement, during or after the match – I think sometimes it’s because he wants headlines -” Gambhir said. “The most important thing now is that we both have to work extremely hard to make India proud. And that’s our job.
“He’s a thorough professional, a world-class athlete, a world-class player. I’ve always said that. I have a lot of respect for him as a player and I always will. And I hope we can work together really well.”
Gambhir backs Rohit and Kohli’s participation in 2027 ODI World Cup
“I think they have shown what they can offer on the big stage, whether it is a T20 World Cup or a 50-over World Cup,” Gambhir said. “One thing I can say for sure is that both the players have a lot left in cricket. More importantly, they will be motivated enough because there is the Champions Trophy (in 2025) and the Australia tour (in November 2024). And if they can maintain their fitness, then hopefully the 2027 (ODI) World Cup as well.
“But it’s a very personal decision. I can’t tell you how much cricket there is left. Ultimately it’s up to them, it’s up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team’s success? Because ultimately it’s the team that counts.
“But when you look at what Virat and Rohit can offer, I think they can still play a lot of cricket. They are still world-class players and obviously any team would want both of them for as long as possible.”
