Ever since the Indian cricket team broke precedence and took the big call to take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground without skipper Rohit Sharma's presence in the playing XI, speculation has been rampant on a rift between the Indian captain and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

For those unversed, Rohit Sharma is the first full-time Indian captain to be benched in the middle of the series following a horror run of form that saw him score just 31 runs in three matches (five innings) at an average of 6.1 with a highest score of 10.

The Indian captain explained that he decided to 'step down' while stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah claimed at the toss that the 38-year-old had 'opted to rest.'

After India's defeat in the Sydney Test, Rohit addressed the decision and lashed out at media reports over the issue. The 43-year-old called for reports to be more sensible in what is written. The Indian coach hailed Rohit for putting the team's interest ahead of himself.

"The first thing I would like to say is that there were so many reports written and things said, I mean you could be more sensible about it. When a captain or a leader takes a call, keeping the team in mind, I don't think there's anything bad. A lot of things have been said, but ultimately, individuals are there, but most importantly, there is the team and the country. I think all players should keep the team ahead of their individual interests. Rohit Sharma showed accountability at the top," said Gambhir in the post-match press conference.

Gambhir also addressed the future of both Rohit and Virat Kohli, who have struggled for form in the longest format of the game. He left the decision in the hands of both players but assured that the best decision for Indian cricket will be made.

"I can't talk about the future of any player. It's up to them as well. But yes, what I can say is that they still have the hunger. They still have the passion. They're tough people. And hopefully they can continue to take Indian cricket forward. But ultimately, as we all know, that whatever they plan, they will plan for the best interest of Indian cricket," said Gambhir.

"First of all, every individual knows where their game and hunger is. That's the most important thing for any sport and any profession. It's not just about the sport. It's about how hungry you are, how passionate you are, and whether the team is moving forward with your contribution or not. Because ultimately, it's neither my team, nor your team, it's the country's team. I believe, as I said, there are very honest players in our dressing room who know how hungry they are," Gambhir added.

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