New Delhi– Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir has hit back at critics who questioned his appointment, accusing some long-time commentators of treating the national sport as their personal fiefdom. Speaking publicly for the first time since taking over from Rahul Dravid in July last year, Gambhir addressed recent criticism and defended his role and performance as head coach.
Appearing at the ABP India@2047 Summit on Tuesday, Gambhir was candid in his remarks. “Some people sitting in the commentary box for the last 25 years act like Indian cricket is their private property,” he said. “It’s not. Indian cricket belongs to the people of this nation.”
Gambhir’s tenure began shortly after he led the Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL 2024 title, their first in a decade. However, his start as national coach has been mixed. India suffered a 3-0 Test series whitewash at home to New Zealand, followed by a 3-1 defeat to Australia, surrendering the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade. India also failed to qualify for the World Test Championship final for the first time since the tournament’s inception.
Despite the setbacks, India bounced back by winning the eight-team Champions Trophy in Dubai, defeating New Zealand in the final to claim their third title in the tournament’s history.
Reflecting on his journey, Gambhir said he had anticipated both highs and lows. “When I took up this job, I knew I’d be judged daily based on the team’s performance. I expected criticism, and I accept it when results aren’t in our favor. But my commitment is to make the country proud, alongside every player, until the last day of my coaching career.”
He reserved his strongest criticism for those he described as “dishonest commentators” who, he claimed, have not only questioned his coaching credentials but also attacked him personally. “They’ve questioned my record, my Champions Trophy prize money, and made insinuations that cross the line. I don’t need to disclose where I spend my money, but the public should know that these people live abroad, earn from India, and don’t even pay taxes here. I’m a proud Indian and will remain so until my last breath.”
Taking a direct swipe at his detractors, Gambhir added, “Those whose own houses aren’t even made of glass should think not a thousand but a million times before throwing stones at others.”
As Gambhir continues to navigate one of the most scrutinized roles in Indian sport, his comments underscore the intense pressure and public spotlight that comes with leading the national cricket team—and the fierce debate that surrounds its future. (Source: IANS)
