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Manoj Tiwary Says Poor Team Environment Drove Kohli, Rohit From Tests, Challenges Gambhir’s ‘Transition’ Line

The remarks followed India’s 30-run Eden Gardens defeat to South Africa, sharpening scrutiny of Gautam Gambhir before the Guwahati Test.

Overview

  • Tiwary claimed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma wanted to continue in red-ball cricket but stepped away because of a negative dressing-room atmosphere.
  • He rejected talk of a necessary transition for Indian cricket, arguing the domestic talent pool makes such framing unnecessary and counterproductive.
  • He criticized head coach Gautam Gambhir for faulting batters’ technique after the loss, saying a coach’s role is to prepare players rather than assign blame.
  • Reports noted Gambhir had cited a young side, a transition phase, and shortcomings in technique and temperament following the 30-run defeat in Kolkata, with the pitch also under scrutiny.
  • Kohli and Rohit announced Test retirements in May 2025, Shubman Gill later captained the England tour that finished 2-2, and India now seeks to level the South Africa series in Guwahati from November 22.