Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is spending time away on a family vacation in England ahead of the white-ball series against New Zealand at home next month. Meanwhile, senior Team India stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were asked to play for their state teams in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has already named the squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, but has deliberately delayed the ODI selection. Performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will play a key role in the selection process. Kohli and Rohit returned to the tournament and completed their stints.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Performances in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025
Virat Kohli returned to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after 15 years and made an immediate impact for Delhi. He began with a brilliant 131 in a run chase, showing his hunger for runs. The batter also became the fastest player to reach 16,000 List A runs.
Your daily dose of cricket!
Kohli scored 77 against Gujarat in Bengaluru, winning the Player of the Match award. Fans were seen gathering at the Bengaluru airport, hoping to see him after Delhi’s matches.
Rohit Sharma also had a memorable stint for Mumbai. He led his side against Sikkim and smashed a stunning 155 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, guiding Mumbai to a big win.
Fans crowded around him at the Jaipur airport, and videos of his interactions quickly went viral. Hundreds of fans had arrived at the stadium early in the morning just to watch him bat. However, he was dismissed for a golden duck against Uttarakhand.
Gautam Gambhir Currently On A Family Vacation in England
While senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were busy featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Gautam Gambhir is away from cricket duties. Gambhir is currently spending time with his family on vacation in England.
“By the way, Gautam Gambhir is currently on a family vacation in England. Wishing him and his loved ones a very Happy New Year 2026. Time to unwind, recharge, and return stronger,” journalist Animesh Choudhary wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
By the way, Gautam Gambhir is currently on a family vacation in England.
Wishing him and his loved ones a very Happy New Year 2026
Time to unwind, recharge, and return stronger.#GautamGambhir#WorldCup2026— Animesh Choudhary 🇮🇳 (@Imanimeshation) December 27, 2025
Challenges of World Cup Selection Under Gautam Gambhir
Picking a World Cup squad in India is never easy. Only 15 players can be selected despite having many strong options. Every player picked looks deserving, but so do many who are left out.
Gautam Gambhir has taken an outspoken approach since taking charge as head coach. While his tactics have helped India win matches, the manner in which the World Cup squad was announced created confusion and criticism.
The biggest surprise was the exclusion of Shubman Gill, who had been the vice-captain during most of the T20 World Cup cycle. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said the decision was based on team balance rather than form.
India’s on-field results remain strong, and the team looks well prepared. However, clear communication and better man management will be just as important if the team wants to stay united and keep fans on their side.
Also read: Rohit Sharma QUITS Vijay Hazare Trophy midway after duck, abruptly leaves for home