Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli, two of the most prominent figures in Indian cricket, have had their share of heated exchanges over the years in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Their rivalry has often made headlines, portraying a strained relationship between the two. However, in the recently concluded 17th edition of the IPL, a heartwarming moment unfolded that suggested a significant thaw in their icy interactions.
The two cricketing giants greeted each other warmly and even shared a hug, seemingly dissolving years of tension in an instant. Gautam Gambhir returned to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2024, this time in a mentor role. His guidance proved invaluable, as KKR ended their decade-long wait for a third title.
On the other hand, Virat Kohli had a stellar season, finishing as the leading run-scorer in an IPL season for the second time and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) reach the playoffs after a shaky start. The moment of reconciliation occurred after a closely contested match at Eden Gardens, where KKR edged out RCB by just one run.
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Following the game, Gambhir and Kohli embraced each other warmly, a gesture that delighted fans who had long hoped for the two to bury the hatchet. In a recent interview, Gautam Gambhir emphasized that both he and Kohli are passionate about expressing themselves and winning games for their respective teams. He also highlighted that their relationship is a private matter, not something meant to fuel public speculation.
Gautam Gambhir said, “my relation with Virat Kohli is something this country doesn’t need to know. He has as much right as I do to express himself and help our respective teams win. Our relation is not to give masala to the public”. pic.twitter.com/raQtxYkRbV
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 30, 2024
“The perception is far away from the reality. My relationship with Virat Kohli is something this country doesn’t need to know. He has as much right as I do to express himself and help our respective teams win. Our relationship is not to give masala to the public,” Gautam Gambhir shared with Sportskeeda.
Gambhir also praised Kohli’s exceptional batting skills, particularly his six-hitting ability. Kohli, in turn, mentioned in a separate interview that some people were disappointed by their reconciliation, as it ended the ongoing narrative of their rivalry.
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“People are very disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen, and then the other day, Gauti bhai (Gautam Gambhir) came and hugged me. Your masala is over, so you’re booing. We’re not kids anymore,” Virat Kohli remarked during an event organized by Asian Paints.
Looking ahead, Gambhir is a strong contender to become India’s next head coach after the T20 World Cup 2024. This potential development could see Gambhir and Kohli working together once again, this time in the Indian team’s dressing room, much to the anticipation and excitement of cricket fans.
