New Delhi, India – Former India opener and celebrated cricket personality Navjot Singh Sidhu has launched a passionate defense of current head coach Gautam Gambhir, urging his critics to acknowledge the team’s commendable performance and 2-2 series draw against England. Following India’s hard-fought Test series in England, which saw a young Indian side without stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma achieve a significant result, Sidhu questioned those who were quick to criticize Gambhir.
The Weight of Expectations: Gambhir Under Scrutiny
Gautam Gambhir, as India’s head coach, entered the England tour under considerable pressure. This followed a disappointing home series whitewash against New Zealand and less-than-ideal results in Australia. With the Test retirements of key senior players just before the tour, many observers doubted the inexperienced squad’s ability to compete effectively in England. Gambhir’s team selections, including the preference for Washington Sundar over Kuldeep Yadav in certain matches, also drew criticism from various quarters.
Sidhu’s Fiery Defense: “Everyone Climbs on Gautam Gambhir”
In a strong message delivered via his YouTube channel, Navjot Singh Sidhu didn’t mince words when addressing Gambhir’s detractors. “We do a lot of hero-worshipping. I want to say that whenever India plays even a little badly, anyone and everyone climbs on Gautam Gambhir and blames him. Will you stand up and greet him today?” Sidhu questioned, highlighting the often-quick shift from criticism to silence when success is achieved.
Backing the Young Brigade: A Vision That Paid Off
Sidhu lauded Gambhir for his conviction and belief in the young talent within the squad. He emphasized Gambhir’s role in initiating a “transition” phase and providing opportunities to players like Akash Deep and Washington Sundar. Despite some questioning the omission of a wrist-spinner like Kuldeep Yadav, Sidhu credited Gambhir for sticking to his methods, emphasizing that the coach’s bold decisions paid off. “It was Gautam Gambhir who insisted on this transition, who gave opportunities to guys like Akash Deep and Washington,” Sidhu stated. “Yes, Kuldeep was maybe a better option. But he had conviction.”
Drawing Parallels to Historic Overseas Wins
Sidhu went further, drawing parallels between India’s gritty performance in England and some of their most iconic overseas triumphs. He remarked that “history has been scripted by youngsters” in victories akin to those in Brisbane and Perth, underscoring the significance of the current team’s achievement under Gambhir’s guidance. The former cricketer pointed out that Gambhir had urged his players to see the absence of big names as an opportunity to make their mark, a philosophy that has now proven true.
A Call for Due Credit
Ultimately, Sidhu’s message was a resounding call for critics to acknowledge Gambhir’s efforts and the team’s resilience. He argued that after facing so much scrutiny and criticism, Gambhir deserves the credit for guiding a young Indian side to a creditable 2-2 draw in a challenging away series. The series outcome, particularly the memorable victory in the final Test at The Oval, has not only silenced many of Gambhir’s critics but also signaled a new dawn for Indian Test cricket under his leadership.
