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Rohit Sharma Ignores Gambhir; Chooses Abhishek Nayar To Train For Australia ODIs

Soumyajit Dutta

Rohit Sharma trains with Abhishek Nayar [Source: @aman_mathur/X.com]Rohit Sharma trains with Abhishek Nayar [Source: @aman_mathur/X.com]

In a surprising turn of events, India’s white-ball captain Rohit Sharma has been spotted training alongside former all-rounder Abhishek Nayar, despite Nayar’s removal from the role of Team India’s assistant coach by head coach Gautam Gambhir ahead of Nayar's tenure. 

The unlikely pairing has set tongues wagging, fueling speculation about an unspoken message to the coaching hierarchy and highlighting deeper undercurrents within the Indian setup.

Rohit Sharma And Nayar's Bond Sparks New Rumours

Speaking of the duo's bond, Over the years, the veteran's training regime technical insights won Rohit’s admiration. When Nayar was appointed Team India’s assistant coach in 2024, Rohit publicly praised his support and trusted Nayar’s ability to fine-tune his play.

Neverthelss, Gautam Gambhir’s appointment heralded a fresh vision of youth and aggression. One of Gambhir’s earliest decisions was to exclude Nayar from the coaching panel, reportedly due to “philosophical differences” over player management and training methodology. 

Nayar, who debuted in 2005 and enjoyed prolific domestic seasons for Mumbai, had never played for India beyond a handful of Tests and ODIs, yet his coaching credentials were widely respected.

Rohit Posts Instagram Story With Nayar

Despite Nayar’s official departure, Rohit has continued training with him. Rohit Sharma's latest Instagram story with Nayar standing opposite to him with a smile in the backdrop of a gym gives unmistakable optics, India’s captain, sidestepping the coach’s preferences, turning to a dismissed assistant for technical guidance. Notably, Nayar reposted the story with the caption, "Let it begin".

A Message to The Coach?

Although this is a case to study, it could be Rohit’s subtle signal to Gambhir, a reminder of the value Nayar brings behind the scenes. Rohit’s on-field leadership and off-field influence carry immense weight, aligning with Nayar implies that Gambhir’s overhaul might overlook vital continuity and trust that senior players cherish.

As India gears up for the Australia series in October, the cricketing fraternity will watch whether Gambhir addresses this brewing rift or doubles down on his vision.