In a highly anticipated interview set to be released by the BCCI on Wednesday, September 18, India’s coach Gautam Gambhir and star batter Virat Kohli were seen engaging in some playful banter ahead of the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Known for their competitive spirit and on-field aggression, Gambhir and Kohli have had their share of heated moments, particularly during their Indian Premier League (IPL) clashes. However, since Gambhir’s appointment as India’s head coach, the duo has resolved their differences, prioritizing the success of the Indian cricket team.
During the training camp leading up to the Bangladesh series, Gambhir and Kohli were seen joking around and enjoying each other’s company. The interview, which promises to showcase their lighter side, features Kohli humorously addressing their past confrontations. In a video snippet shared by the BCCI, Kohli asked Gambhir about the mental challenges of having verbal exchanges with the opposition during matches.
Kohli, known for his fiery on-field persona, asked, “When you’re batting and you have a bit of a chat with the opposition, did you ever feel like this might carry on to you going out of the zone and you potentially getting out, or did it put you in a more motivated space?”
Gambhir, in his typical witty style, responded by playfully turning the question back to Kohli, saying, “You had more altercations than I have. You can answer that question better than I can.”
The light-hearted exchange between the two has been welcomed by fans, as it symbolizes the end of the long-standing “masala and spice” that surrounded their rivalry. Both Gambhir and Kohli have matured beyond the tensions of the past, focusing now on India’s collective success.
This upcoming series against Bangladesh is particularly significant, as it marks the beginning of India’s journey to the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. With Gambhir at the helm as the coach and Kohli as one of the key players, India will face Bangladesh in two crucial Tests, followed by an important series against New Zealand at home and Australia away. This 10-match stretch in the longest format of the game will be crucial in determining India’s path to the WTC Final.
Fans are eagerly looking forward to the series, not only for the action on the field but also for the unity and camaraderie displayed by the Indian squad, with Gambhir and Kohli leading the charge. This interview is a testament to how both men have evolved, putting their past behind them and focusing on their shared mission to take Indian cricket to new heights.
