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India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting legend Virat Kohli The relationship between the two has been one of the most debated topics in world cricket, especially following recent changes to the structure of the national team. when india Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 After going through a transitional phase, the focus has been on co-existence between these two giants, which ODI World Cup 2011 Are to the time of victory of.

Although a picture of tension is often portrayed on social media, the inner reality of the dressing room remains a subject of intense public curiosity. On February 8, 2026, BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia finally clarified whether this felt tension is a genuine concern or simply a byproduct of their high-profile history.

BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia clarifies position on Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir equation

Recently during an appearance on India Today Podcast, BCCI Secretary Saikia provided a candid update on the relationship between Kohli and Gambhir. Saikia dismissed the long-running rumors of a rift by saying emphatically, “I have never seen them fight. They are in a very good and cordial relationship.”

When IPL 2023 When asked about the controversial clash which many consider to be the foundation of the ‘Cold War’, Saikia downplayed the incident, stating that he focuses on their interactions while representing the country and not on franchise adversaries. He described the idea of ​​the ‘feuding’ pair as a public ‘perception’ and not a dressing room reality, confirming that both are pursuing the same goals for professional Indian cricket.

“I did not see it. IPL? Maybe I didn’t watch that match because I was with him when he was representing the country. So, IPL: It is not possible to watch every match. That may be the perception, 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??” Saikia added.

Will Kohli and Rohit Sharma play ODI World Cup 2027? BCCI Secretary’s reply

The discussion also touched on the sudden change that forced both Kohli and Rohit to retire from Test cricket in May 2025 to focus exclusively on the 50-over format. Saikia rejected the theory that Gambhir’s preference for ‘young blood’ had left these veterans out of the red-ball setup. He also added that the board does not interfere in such career-determining choices.

Despite being moved to Grade B contracts due to single format status, both senior players remained with India. ODI World Cup 2027 Remain important in the plan. Saikia rubbished reports of Gambhir wanting to drop him from the ODI squad, stating that his consistent presence and performances are the ultimate proof of his status in the team.

“No one can force a player like Virat Kohli to change and take decisions. He is at that level. He is no ordinary player; He is a legend of Indian cricket. No one can force them to take decisions unless they do so themselves. The board will not interfere in the career of any player. Many people write nonsense. We cannot comment on nonsense. We don’t see such things. These things were never raised in any meeting,” Saikia concluded.