Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer and World Cup hero, dismissed a news article claiming he criticized Virat Kohli after Glenn Maxwell’s double century against Afghanistan in the ICC World Cup 2023. The cricketer-turned-politician clarified on X that he never made such remarks.
In his statement, Gambhir underscored the significance of Kohli extending his innings. He pointed out, “It was crucial for Kohli to bat deep, and I sense a slight slowdown in the last 5-6 overs, perhaps due to nearing a century. However, I think there were already ample runs on the board. It might have posed a challenge for India if they were batting on a good pitch.”
#CricketTwitter
— Express Sports (@IExpressSports) November 8, 2023
‘It was important for Kohli to bat deep…he slowed down a bit’: Gautam Gambhirhttps://t.co/E6A5NyU2sN
‘Kohli slowed down a bit’ – Gautam Gambhir Said
Virat Kohli marked his 35th birthday in a remarkable way, achieving a record-equaling 49th ODI century against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 5.
This century not only added to his personal milestones but also placed him on par with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, solidifying their shared position for the most number of centuries in the history of the ODI format. Quite the birthday celebration for the Indian batting maestro.
What Did Gambhir Actually Said In An interview?
Gambhir, sharing his insights with Sportskeeda, acknowledged that Virat Kohli did experience a slowdown towards the end of his innings against South Africa. Gambhir attributed this deceleration to the approaching century milestone. However, he emphasized the significance of Shreyas Iyer’s contribution, praising the batsman for easing the pressure on Kohli during their impressive 189-run partnership.
Gambhir emphasized the importance of Kohli batting deep, noting that towards the end, in the last 5-6 overs, Kohli slowed down, possibly due to nearing a century. However, Gambhir believes that there were already sufficient runs on the board, and such a cautious approach might have been risky if they were playing on a good pitch.
He also commended Shreyas Iyer for his bold approach, taking chances and relieving the pressure on Kohli. Gambhir highlighted their effective handling of Keshav Maharaj, limiting him to just one wicket while Ravindra Jadeja picked up five.
With 543 runs in eight innings, including two centuries, Kohli is now the second-highest run-scorer for India in the tournament. This performance surpasses his 2019 World Cup numbers, making it his best-ever batting display at a World Cup edition.
Let’s Understand All The Matter Between Gautam Gambhir And News 18
Gautam Gambhir strongly denied a news article claiming he criticized Virat Kohli for not hitting a six during Glenn Maxwell’s double century against Afghanistan in the ICC World Cup 2023.
The article quoted him saying, “Virat Kohli would have taken singles on 195 if had he been there. But Glenn Maxwell chose to hit six, that’s what makes him different.” The former cricketer and BJP MP from Delhi refuted the statement on X, insisting he never made such comments.
“What bullsh*t! When I say something, I say it openly. To all the so-called verified handles – cite source or apologize!” Gambhir tweeted.
What bullsh*t! When I say something I say it openly. To all the so called verified handles – cite source or apologise! pic.twitter.com/zDS9MaOv1N
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 8, 2023
News18 later expressed regret to Gautam Gambhir and took down the article. “Dear Gautam Gambhir, we sincerely apologize for the unintended mistake and any inconvenience it may have caused you. Our aim was never to cause harm or confusion. We hold you in the highest regard and respect. The story has been removed,” News18 tweeted on X.
Dear @GautamGambhir, we sincerely apologise for the inadvertent error and the inconvenience it has caused you. Our intention was never to hurt or mislead. We have the highest regard and respect for you. The story has been taken down. https://t.co/Epm4wxGhat
— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2023
Later Gautam Gambhir retweeted And said that there are better ways of making money. Hatred will not take you far!
Thank you @CNNnews18 for prompt action. Much appreciated. To all other verified handles, there are better ways of making money. Hatred will not take you far! https://t.co/jIZdqN9sEv
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 8, 2023
Gautam Gambhir Appericiated Kohli On his Hunderd
It seems like Gautam Gambhir is putting any past differences aside and giving credit where it’s due. Despite their heated argument in the Indian Premier League earlier this year, Gambhir has been praising Virat Kohli’s performances in the World Cup.
After Kohli’s stellar performance against the Proteas on his 35th birthday, Gambhir commended him and Shreyas Iyer, saying, “Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer batted on a different planet today. They acknowledged that the pitch had some serious spin, and both of them showcased exceptional batting skills while on air. It’s good to see appreciation for exceptional performances, regardless of any previous disagreements.
India is set to face the Netherlands in their upcoming match on Sunday in Bengaluru.
Also Read: HOW MATHEWS GOT OUT? WHAT IS TIMED OUT DISMISSAL?
