Rohit Sharma discusses wicketkeeping dilemma and new coaching dynamics with Gambhir

Following India's exhilarating T20 World Cup victory, ODI captain Rohit Sharma is focused on the team’s upcoming series against Sri Lanka. 

Despite the excitement of their recent triumph, Sharma emphasized that the squad remains dedicated to their next challenge.

In a press conference on Thursday, Sharma acknowledged the significance of their recent achievement but stressed the importance of shifting focus to future engagements. 

"It was a great feeling," Rohit told reporters. "We have to move on. It is time to move on now as well and think of what lies ahead of us."

"We are not here to chill in Colombo. At the end of the day, the standard of Indian cricket is more important."

The Indian team is set to kick off their ODI series in Colombo, starting Friday. Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli, who both missed the recent 3-0 series sweep by Sri Lanka, are making their return after announcing their retirement from T20 internationals. This series marks their first appearance since the final in Barbados in June.

Addressing the team selection, Sharma discussed the dilemma between choosing K.L. Rahul or Rishabh Pant as the primary wicketkeeper. Pant, who has returned to international cricket after a serious car accident and injury, is competing with Rahul, a seasoned player. 

"You know the ability of both players. They are match winners in their own way," he said.

"It is nice to have problems picking teams. That means we have quality."

On Gautam Gambhir's new role as Head Coach, Sharma hinted at a fresh coaching perspective. 

“Gautam Gambhir has played a lot of cricket and he has been involved with franchise cricket also before. Obviously, it is going to be different from the previous support staff. Ravi Shastri was there before Rahul Dravid joined the team, every individual works differently,” he commented.

Squads:

Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Mohamed Shiraz, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando.

India: Rohit Sharma (capt), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, K.L. Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.