Tensions appear to be simmering within the Indian cricket team, with reports surfacing about strained relationships between head coach Gautam Gambhir and senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. These reports gained traction following observations made during the ongoing ODI series.

According to a report, Virat Kohli walked past Gautam Gambhir without exchanging any words. Following Kohli, Rohit Sharma also walked past, but he engaged in a conversation with the Indian head coach.

Adding fuel to the fire, reports suggest a rift between Gambhir and both Kohli and Sharma, alleging that the relationship between the coach and the two legends has grown colder. Speculation is rising about Gambhir's potential influence in sidelining them from the Test side and his reservations about including them in the ODI squad for the 2027 World Cup.

Adding another layer to the complex dynamic, there are claims that Rohit Sharma's relationship with Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, isn't particularly warm. It's been reported that the two did not interact during the ODI series in Australia.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly concerned about the social media attacks directed towards Gambhir by fans of both Kohli and Rohit. There is a sense of unease within the BCCI regarding the public nature of these perceived conflicts.

Adding to the intrigue, a video circulating online purportedly shows Kohli in a serious discussion with Pragyan Ojha, a member of the BCCI selection committee. Another clip reportedly shows Ojha in conversation with Rohit Sharma, with Gautam Gambhir seated nearby, but Kohli was not part of this discussion.

These reports and observations have ignited discussions about potential communication breakdowns and a "borderline cold" environment between the coach and the senior players. Some reports claim that Kohli has been avoiding Gambhir on multiple occasions, and did not join a celebration that involved the Indian coach and KL Rahul.

This isn't the first time Kohli has been involved in coaching room rifts. Back in 2017, a similar situation arose with then-coach Anil Kumble, ultimately leading to Kumble's departure. According to Ratnakar Shetty's book, Kohli felt Kumble wasn't supporting the players, creating a tense atmosphere.

Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary has alleged that a similar environment is being fostered, potentially pushing senior players towards premature retirement. Tiwary has also criticized the decision to remove Rohit Sharma as ODI captain, suggesting that disrespect from the BCCI prompted Virat Kohli to step down from Test cricket. He added that the environment made Kohli feel unwanted.