Kevin Pietersen defended Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating that every player faces challenges and they are not robots who can score centuries every time.

Ashwin, who has turned into a full-scale pundit since his retirement from international cricket, shared some important insights ahead of the start of India's ODI series against England. The assignment will also work as a practice series, setting the tone for Champions Trophy, which starts on February 19.

Pietersen had a love-hate relationship with British media and he knows exactly how the two stars feel.

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.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly backed senior India batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to return to form during the ICC tournament. Ganguly also felt that India are not the outright favourites to lift the ICC title.