Photo Credit: Insatgram Photo of @sanjaysphotos
Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir defended his players and discussed plans for the upcoming Australia tour as he addressed the media ahead of his departure for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Gambhir touched on key issues, including the potential absence of Rohit Sharma for the first Test in Perth and the performance of senior players. However, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his disappointment on social media, urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to avoid having Gambhir handle press duties.
Gambhir faced the media for the first time since India’s 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand at home. Despite tough questions, he stayed composed and addressed each one, but Manjrekar remained critical.
“Just watched Gambhir in the press conference. May be wise for @BCCI to keep him away from such duties, let him work behind the scenes. He does not have the right demeanour nor the words when interacting with them. Rohit & Agarkar, much better guys to front up for the media,” Manjrekar posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Just watched Gambhir in the press conference.
May be wise for @BCCI to keep him away from such duties, let him work behind the scenes. He does not have the right demeanour nor the words when interacting with them. Rohit & Agarkar, much better guys to front up for the media.— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) November 11, 2024
In the press conference, Gambhir did not confirm whether Rohit Sharma would be available for the Perth Test but stated that Jasprit Bumrah would captain the side if needed.
“Look, at the moment there is no confirmation, but we guys will let you know exactly what the situation will be. Hopefully, he is going to be available, but everything you want to get to know before the start of the series.
“Bumrah is the vice-captain, so obviously he will (lead the team). If Rohit is not available, he is going to lead in Perth,” Gambhir said.
He also mentioned that KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran are the leading options to open with Yashasvi Jaiswal if Rohit is unavailable for the match.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
