Mumbai, Feb 8 (.) BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Sunday dismissed speculation of a rift between former India captain Virat Kohli and ex-opener Gautam Gambhir, affirming that the two share a cordial professional relationship within the Indian cricket setup.
Speaking during a podcast interview, Saikia addressed growing public debate over the rapport between Kohli and Gambhir, who is now part of the national team’s support leadership structure. Recent match visuals and off-field interactions had fuelled rumours on social media about the two not being on speaking terms.
“I have never seen them fighting. They are in a very good cordial relationship,” Saikia said, noting that such claims are not supported by his personal observations.
Speculation had reignited after Kohli and Gambhir were reportedly not seen interacting during practice sessions and match-day preparations. Television footage following an ODI against New Zealand, showing Kohli walking past Gambhir inside the dressing room, further triggered online chatter.
Referring to their earlier on-field exchange during an IPL 2023 match, which had led to disciplinary action, Saikia said he was not present at the match and could not comment directly.
Saikia also rejected claims suggesting Gambhir had any influence over keeping Kohli out of the India team. “That perception might be there, but Virat Kohli is always in the team. Gautam Gambhir is also there. We see the results. Have you seen Virat Kohli not being a part of the team?” he said.
Addressing Kohli’s reported decision to step away from Test cricket to focus on limited-overs formats, Saikia emphasised that no one can force a player of Kohli’s stature to retire. He is not an ordinary player; he is a legend in Indian cricket. The board will not interfere in any player’s career,” he said.
Speculation over senior players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma being phased out of the ODI setup was also dismissed by Saikia as “unfounded” and not part of any board discussions. He stressed that selection is strictly performance-based and conducted through formal channels.
Despite public narratives around personality clashes, Saikia said the India team environment remains professional, with senior and former players contributing in coaching and mentoring roles. Systems are in place to ensure the focus stays on results rather than personal histories.
By backing both Kohli and Gambhir and rejecting rumours of internal friction, Saikia aimed to reaffirm that team selection and player career decisions remain independent, transparent, and performance-driven.
. . CDS