A year ago, the thought of Virat Kohli discussing how to tackle spin bowling with Gautam Gambhir might have seemed unlikely, given the history between the two. But today, as reality unfolds, the two are working closely together, with Gambhir now the head coach of the Indian team. Recently, they were spotted having an in-depth discussion about batting drills at the Chepauk in Chennai, focusing on improving Kohli’s technique against spin.
According to sources, one of the key topics they discussed was how to play spinners more effectively by focusing on the bowler’s hand and point of release, rather than reacting after the ball pitches. Gambhir, known for his mastery against spin during his playing days, shared insights on how reading the ball earlier can help a batter make quicker decisions, enabling better shot selection and footwork. They also talked about using lighter bats to bring the wrists into play, a technique Gambhir had used during his career to add more control and flexibility when playing spin, particularly in turning conditions.
This discussion is part of Gambhir’s larger plan to restore India’s reputation as formidable players of spin, something that has been a point of pride for past generations. The drills they were working on aim to sharpen Kohli’s ability to counter unpredictable turns and variations that spinners can throw at a batter, especially on spin-friendly tracks like Chennai.
Sources told CricBlogger that Gambhir has been emphasising how good eyesight, combined with the use of lighter bats, plays a crucial role in improving a batter’s ability to handle spinners.
According to Gambhir, sharp eyesight allows a batter to pick up on the subtle details of a spinner’s release, such as the wrist position and grip, which can help predict the type of delivery. Using lighter bats, Gambhir argues, allows for quicker bat speed and more precise wrist movements, which are essential when facing spin bowlers. The reduced weight gives the batter more flexibility in adjusting to late turns or unexpected bounce, enabling them to react faster and execute shots with greater control.
This technique, combined with the ability to read the ball early, enhances the overall effectiveness against quality spin attacks, particularly on turning pitches. Those who once believed that Gambhir and Kohli couldn’t coexist in the same dressing room will have to rethink that stance. The two are now working closely together, setting aside past differences to help India pursue bigger goals on the cricket field. Their shared commitment to Indian cricket has brought them in sync, with both fully focused on elevating the team’s performance.
Despite their well-documented disagreements in the past, Gambhir and Kohli have put those issues behind them. Now, as head coach and senior player, they have become strong allies, united in their mission to improve India’s fortunes, particularly in areas like tackling spin and refining batting techniques. Their newfound partnership reflects their dedication to the greater cause of Indian cricket, proving that personal differences are secondary when it comes to achieving success for the team.
About the Author:
Indranil Basu is a seasoned sports journalist, renowned cricket writer, commentator, and influencer. With a profound understanding of the sports ecosystem, he excels in providing perspectives that enrich the experience of every sports enthusiast. Presently, he contributes to cricblogger.com, showcasing his expertise and passion for the game of cricket.
