"Of course, it is a cause of worry if players of that calibre don't get runs. They have big reputations and when you have such big reputations then there is a case for you to defend that," Kapil said on the sidelines of the Junior National tennis Championships where he was chief guest for the finals.
"They are big players and it is important for them to score runs not only for the team but also for themselves otherwise there will be worrying signs," he added.
Both Gambhir and Sehwag struggled at the recent World Twenty20 Championships but remain India's best opening option ahead of the upcoming home series against England next month and Australia which will come here in February-March.
Kapil sidestepped queries on the issue of whether Sachin Tendulkar should retire from international cricket.
"Bade player ke baare mein na hi baat karein to accha hai (It is better not to talk about the decisions of big players)," he said.
"He had recently given an interview and he has said what he had to say," he added referring to Tendulkar's statement that he would reassess his plans next month. MORE