Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary didn’t hold back in blaming head coach Gautam Gambhir for negatively impacting the team environment. Since Gambhir took over the coaching role, several contentious issues have surfaced. The decision to replace Rohit Sharma with Shubman Gill as ODI captain has fuelled social media debates, with fans unsure whether Rohit and Virat Kohli will feature in the 2027 World Cup.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are preparing to return to international cricket for the first time since the 2025 Champions Trophy. Earlier this year, both players announced their retirement from Test cricket following a disappointing tour of Australia. Their decisions to step away came unexpectedly, especially just before a key series against England.

Ravichandran Ashwin retired from Test cricket last year during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Meanwhile, Gambhir has been accused of playing a role in these retirements, with Tiwary alleging that the current head coach does not welcome his suggestions being questioned.

“If the senior players like Ashwin or Rohit are around, they’ve played far more cricket and have more experience than the head coach or staff. They aren’t afraid to question decisions if they disagree. But it seems the aim was to ensure these players aren’t part of the team,” Tiwary told InsideSport.

“Since this coach took charge, I’ve noticed the rise of controversies, and several things happening that aren’t positive for Indian cricket. During his tenure, Ashwin retired, and Rohit and Virat followed him. There have also been instances of players being suddenly included in the squad and immediately made part of the starting XI. Gambhir’s approach has lacked consistency,” he added.

Manoj Tiwary, who knows Gambhir well, gave him the benefit of the doubt, saying the current head coach probably won’t remove Rohit and Virat from the ODI squad.

“Rohit and Virat have been exceptional contributors to Indian cricket. They have given their all, putting their heart and soul into the game,” Tiwary mentioned.

Several sources indicate that the upcoming three-match series against Australia might be the last for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.