Mumbai: Team India’s head coach, and former India cricketer, Gautam Gambhir held a press conference in Mumbai just before the team left for its Australia tour. In the press conference, there are ten main points that Gambhir mentioned, the position of captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah. He also gave his thoughts on the form of Rohit and Virat Kohli and also spoke about the possible openers for the Test series.
Here’s a look at the ten major takeaways from Gautam Gambhir’s press conference ahead of Team India’s Australia tour:
Rohit Sharma’s Availability: The first question posed to Gambhir was about Rohit’s fitness. In reply, Gambhir said that the specific information would be given before the beginning of the Test series and Rohit may also not play the match.
Opening Options: Gambhir was also asked who would open if Rohit Sharma was not available to play. He said Abhimanyu Easwaran and K L Rahul are the first choices, the rest of the options are also there in the team.
Shubman Gill’s Batting Position: While answering a query on whether Shubman Gill will be promoted up the order, Gambhir said he cannot disclose the playing XI at this time as it will depend on the conditions. The player to be selected on the team will be made after checking on the conditions that are prevailing in Australia.
Rohit and Virat’s Recent Form: Gambhir was asked about the current performance of Rohit and Virat. He brushed aside all the fears saying that both the players have enough experience and above all they still have the desire for runs as can be seen from their commitment to practise.
Bumrah as Captain: Gambhir Said if Rohit Sharma Is Not Fit to Play Then the Vice Captain of the Test Side, Jasprit Bumrah Will Lead the Test Team During the Australian Tour.
Blend of Experience and Youth: Gambhir spoke about the balance, and how the team has a good combination of the old and the young. He thinks that newcomers will get a lot from the seniors especially on their first tour of Australia.
Ready for Any Pitch: In response to questions about pitch conditions, Gambhir said that India cannot determine the kind of pitch Australia will provide but the team is prepared for any surface.
Team Interest Above Personal Milestones: Gambhir stressed that the team’s main idea is to achieve collective targets rather than personal records, and stressed the issue of togetherness.
Strong Pace Attack: Gambhir, while giving credit to India’s pace power acknowledging that the team has got five good pace bowlers. He specifically mentioned Harshit Rana saying that although the player has no international exposure, he has impressive first class experience.
Pressure on the Coach: Spotted as under pressure after India’s latest home series loss to New Zealand, Gambhir remained unfazed and said he is under no pressure.
Gautam Gambhir’s press conference was a comprehensive information on how Team India is preparing for the Australia tour. Gambhir however was not worried with the dip in form or fitness of some of the players in his team as he believed his players were versatile and could perform well in any given conditions. It is still very much a team effort and the combination of the old and new could well be the key in a difficult Australian tour.
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