Ahead of India’s two-match Test series against Bangladesh, a special conversation unfolded between head coach Gautam Gambhir and star batter Virat Kohli. The duo, both known for their significant contributions to Indian cricket, sat down to discuss their shared history, from their World Cup 2011 triumph to the highs and lows of their cricketing careers.
Their camaraderie is well-known, but so are their past verbal spats during the IPL, which led to fines from the disciplinary committee. Despite these past disagreements, Gambhir and Kohli have moved beyond their differences and are now collaborating to advance Indian cricket.
During their discussion, Gambhir reminisced about the early days of Kohli’s career, including a memorable moment when he awarded Kohli the Player of the Match award. Gambhir reflected on Kohli’s remarkable achievements, emphasizing how the batter has established a legacy that future generations will admire.
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One highlight of their conversation was Gambhir’s praise for Kohli’s legendary innings against Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup. In that match, while Gambhir was dismissed for a duck, Kohli delivered a spectacular performance, scoring 183 runs to lead India to a six-wicket victory.
According to Gautam Gambhir, this innings stands as one of the finest in ODI history, not just for its sheer brilliance but also for the context: chasing a daunting total of 330 runs against a formidable Pakistani attack. Gambhir pointed out that this innings exemplifies Kohli’s evolution and his immense contribution to Indian cricket.
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“I saw you making your debut and the crucial knock you played in the Champions Trophy in South Africa (England) against a tough West Indies side. Then came this incredible ODI innings. Not many can match that performance, considering the opposition and the stakes,” Gautam Gambhir said in a video released by the BCCI. “The way you’ve contributed over the years and how you’ve elevated Indian cricket is remarkable. The legacy you’ve built will inspire the next generation of cricketers,” he added.
