India head coach Gautam Gambhir was behind the move, with the Champions Trophy spot still up for discussion with chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

Gautam Gambhir has spoken about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Rohit and Kohli were part of the Test squad that endured a 3-0 series whitewash at home against New Zealand, followed by a 3-1 loss in Australia, which ended India's decade-long dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has expressed confidence in the leadership and experience of veteran cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, despite their recent struggles in form. He said that both players still have a significant role to play in India's upcoming Champions Trophy campaign.

Gautam Gambhir emphasised how important Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are to the country's cricket and how they will play a huge part in the Champions Trophy.

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Gambhir said the team cannot relax even for a moment in the Champions Trophy because they have just three league matches, as compared to the 50-over World Cup. “Champions Trophy is a completely different challenge as compared to the 50-over World Cup because literally every game is a make-or-break, so you can't stop anywhere in this tournament.

India coach Gautam Gambhir said Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have much to offer the team despite their poor run of form in recent matches, stressing the veteran duo will play a key role in this month's Champions Trophy.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir placed his faith on batting icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to play "massive roles" in the Champions Trophy and said they add "so much value" to the team and the country`s cricketing landscape in general.