Gambhir on 2027 World Cup: Focus on Present, Not Future; Defends Harshit Rana Against Criticism

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has downplayed speculation around the ODI futures of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, urging the media and public to “stay in the present” as India prepares for their upcoming ODI series in Australia.

Both Sharma and Kohli, now in their mid-30s and retired from Test and T20I formats, were recently included in the squad for the Australia tour, raising questions about their long-term prospects — particularly the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is still over two years away.

“Look, the 50-over World Cup is still two-and-a-half years away, and I think it is very important to stay in the present,” Gambhir said during a press conference after India’s 2-0 Test series win over the West Indies. “They are quality players, and their experience will be a handful in Australia. Hopefully, those two guys will have a successful tour — and more importantly, the team will have a successful series.”

Shubman Gill Takes Charge

With Shubman Gill now leading India in ODIs and also serving as vice-captain in T20Is, he has taken on a significant leadership role. Gambhir believes Gill is mentally and physically ready for the demands of multi-format cricket, dismissing suggestions that the young captain may need a mental-conditioning coach.

“First and foremost, I need one,” Gambhir joked, adding, “He is scoring runs, so he does not need any bit of it. I think all of us are in a good space when we are getting results.”

However, the head coach acknowledged the importance of mental well-being, especially for players juggling all three formats. “It’s not only about Shubman. It is about everyone in that dressing room. I have equal responsibility towards all of them,” he said.

Gambhir Defends Harshit Rana Amid Controversy

Gambhir also addressed recent criticism surrounding the selection of young pacer Harshit Rana for the Australia series. Former India captain and ex-chairman of selectors Kris Srikkanth had suggested on his YouTube channel that Rana’s inclusion was due to his close ties with Gambhir.

The coach called the accusations "shameful" and strongly defended the 23-year-old pacer.

“If you do not spare even a 23-year-old boy to run your YouTube channel, it's unfair,” Gambhir said. “His father is not an ex-chairman or a cricketer. He plays cricket on his own merit and will continue to do so.”

He cautioned against personal attacks, especially on young players, emphasizing the potential damage caused by social media amplification. “Criticise performance, not individuals. Imagine the mindset of a 23-year-old hearing such things,” Gambhir said. “Criticise me — I can handle it. But a 23-year-old boy is still learning.”

He concluded with a reminder that Indian cricket is a shared responsibility. “It belongs to every Indian who wants the team to do well. Let’s be careful and responsible in our criticism.”

Key Takeaways:

• Gambhir urges focus on current performances, not 2027 World Cup speculations.

• Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s selection seen as experience-based for the Australia tour.

• Shubman Gill praised for his current form and leadership role.

• Gambhir strongly defends Harshit Rana against nepotism allegations made by Kris Srikkanth.

• Emphasizes need for responsible criticism, especially toward young players.