Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir has found himself in the midst of a legal storm as the Delhi High Court firmly rejected his plea to delay the trial concerning the alleged illegal distribution of COVID-19 drugs. The verdict comes at a crucial time, just days before India begins their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in the UAE.

Gambhir, a former India cricketer, captain, and ex-MP, has long been under the media spotlight for his bold and often controversial decisions, including the recent omission of Shreyas Iyer from India’s Asia Cup squad. However, the ongoing court case now adds an unprecedented off-field challenge for the national coach.

The Delhi High Court dismissed Gambhir’s request to halt the proceedings, emphasising that name-dropping and highlighting his public stature would not influence the court’s decision. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna specifically remarked that citing Gambhir’s achievements, social work during the pandemic, and donations of oxygen cylinders and medicines would not serve as grounds to delay the trial.

ALSO READ: Rajiv Kumar Bids Farewell: Team India’s Trusted Therapist Steps Away After Nine Years

The court also rejected the petition to quash the FIR, making it clear that the legal process must continue. The trial, which names Gautam Gambhir, his mother Seema, wife Natasha, and CEO Aprajita Singh under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, is scheduled to begin on September 8, just two days before India’s first Asia Cup match. Gambhir’s lawyer had requested a reprieve, arguing that the hearing coinciding with the tournament could impact his professional commitments.

“You are trying name dropping as if it’ll work” – Delhi High Court continues proceedings against Gautam Gambhir in COVID-19 drugs case https://t.co/1TyZp0hCES pic.twitter.com/qEvX70Ayar

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) August 26, 2025

The court, however, maintained that granting a stay would compromise the investigation and potentially dismiss the case. Despite the legal pressures, Gambhir’s on-field achievements remain significant. Since he was appointed India’s head coach, he has guided the team to victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

The upcoming Asia Cup marks an important preparatory tournament ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. With India’s first practice session scheduled for September 5, Gambhir is expected to be fully present with the team to oversee final preparations and squad decisions.

ALSO READ: Mohammed Siraj Credits Virat Kohli For Key Learnings and Aggression On Field

The Delhi High Court’s ruling underscores that while Gambhir’s stature in cricket and public life is notable, it will not influence the course of justice. As India gears up for the Asia Cup 2025, Gambhir faces the dual challenge of legal scrutiny and leading the national team on the field.