New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) Head coach Gautam Gambhir offered a straightforward perspective when questioned about the ODI prospects of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma with the ODI World Cup 2027 on the horizon, emphasizing the necessity for the team to focus on the present. He expressed optimism that the pair will excel during their ODI series in Australia, commencing on October 19 in Perth.

Kohli and Rohit, who have now stepped back from Test and T20I formats, are included in India’s squad, which will be captained by Shubman Gill, for the ODI matches against Australia starting from October 19 in Perth. Kohli reached New Delhi early on Tuesday and is anticipated to join the team before departing for Australia on October 15.

“The ODI World Cup is still about two and a half years away, and it’s crucial to concentrate on the present. There are top-quality players returning, and their experience will be beneficial in Australia. I hope both players have a successful tour, and as a team, we achieve great results,” Gambhir stated during the post-match press conference.

India is set to embark on a busy international calendar, starting with the ODI series in Australia, followed by five T20Is against the same team, before a demanding all-format home series against South Africa in November and December.

With substantial overlap among players participating in all three formats, Gambhir discussed how the players and coaching staff plan to tackle these challenges. “I was thinking about this during my journey to the press conference; it is tough on players, especially with all three formats being played. However, the way the Test players prepared for this series—by playing the India A match against Australia A—was vital. Participating in the Ranji Trophy before the South Africa series will also be crucial,” he elaborated.

“This group of players has excelled in their preparation for the Test series, which is reflected in the results. While it can be challenging, that's the essence of professionalism. Players must maximize their training days because quick turnarounds are common, especially transitioning from one-day to T20 cricket and then back to Test matches within just four days. For those focused solely on Test cricket, playing domestic matches is crucial, rather than just training at the NCA,” he added.

When asked if the constant travel could pose a concern as head coach, especially with significant tournaments like the T20 World Cup, World Test Championship finals, and ODI World Cup approaching in 2026, Gambhir remarked that a coach's effectiveness is largely determined by the team's performance.

“When are you deemed a good coach? You are assessed based on results. This is the harsh reality of my role. As a player, you can influence outcomes—score runs, take wickets, and evade criticism even in losses. But if the results aren’t favorable as a coach, I face criticism,” he explained.

“For ten continuous months, you live under scrutiny. That’s part of the role. Ultimately, what’s in your control? You can work with integrity, foster a positive environment, support players, and make informed decisions crucial for Indian cricket. After that, it’s out of your hands; the players must perform.”

“A coach or captain's value is determined by their team’s performance. It’s not just the captain who is evaluated; the coach shares in that judgment. The better the team performs, the more effective the coach will be. Conversely, if the team struggles, so will the coach,” he concluded.