India coach refuses to discuss Virat Kohli’s future as BCCI summons Gambhir, Agarkar for meeting

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has heaped praise on Virat Kohli but refused to discuss his future after the former captain’s stunning knock during the team’s thrilling 17-run victory over South Africa in the three-match ODI series opener in Ranchi on November 30.

However, Sitanshu Kotak made it clear that Virat Kohli’s long-term future is nowhere close to being questioned. The batting coach also backed Kohli for the ICC World Cup 2027, stressing that both his form and fitness continue to be at a world-class level.

Virat Kohli silences critics again as Sitanshu Kotak backs him strongly for ICC World Cup 2027

Virat Kohli once again delivered a stunning performance at the JSCA Stadium, producing a knock that reminded fans of his most dominant years. His footwork was sharp, his down-the-track sixes came with complete authority, and his trademark fiery celebrations showed just how pumped he was to silence all outside noise.

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After India took a 1-0 lead in the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa, Kotak praised Kohli’s knock of 135 runs as one of pure responsibility and class innings. He also brushed aside concerns about Kohli’s back after physios briefly checked on him during the game, saying the star batter appeared completely fine.

Sitanshu Kotak said during the post-match press conference, “It was an outstanding knock, obviously. He batted really well. He is a thoroughly outstanding player, and he took responsibility, and the way he batted was very good. I think his back is okay. I mean, as much as I know, he is fine.”

There are no questions about anything: Sitanshu Kotak

The Indian coach also stressed that the chatter around Kohli’s future makes no sense when he is still performing at a level many younger players can only dream of. The batting coach also dismissed the similar discussions surrounding Rohit Sharma, who also retired from Tests and T20Is like Kohli.

Kotak further explained, “I do not know why we actually need to look at all this. The way he's batting, he's just brilliant, man. I wouldn't really. The way he is performing, the way his fitness is, there are no questions about anything.”

He explained that both Rohit and Kohli continue to set high standards during practice, guide the youngsters with their experience, and deliver strong performances whenever the team needs them.

Read Also: Harsha Bhogle drops BOMBSHELL on Virat Kohli’s TEST COMEBACK question

BCCI, Gautam Gambhir, and Indian selectors to hold special meeting in Raipur

Meanwhile, the BCCI has arranged an important meeting withthe Indian team management to set a proper roadmap for the future and improve communication across all formats. The meeting will be held on December 3 in Raipur, ahead of the second ODI between India and South Africa.

It is being said that the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, joint secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar are expected to attend the meeting. It is still uncertain whether BCCI president Mithun Manhas will join.

A senior BCCI official shared that the main aim is to make sure selectors and team management are fully aligned. The board wants clearer selection processes, better development plans for players, and an overall improvement in team performance.

Virat Kohli–Rohit Sharma communication gap triggers urgent BCCI Review ahead of 2nd ODI

The main agenda behind this meeting is the communication gap between the management and senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Ever since their retirement from Tests, talks about reduced conversations with the current setup have grown stronger.

The BCCI official was quoted as saying by Sportstar: “During the home Test season, there have been instances of confusing tactics on and off the field. We want clarity and forward planning, especially with the next test series eight months away.

India will be favorites to defend the T20 World Cup next year and strong contenders for the ODI World Cup after that, so we want these issues resolved quickly.”