Gautam Gambhir Criticizes Critics for His Performance and Personal Criticism

Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir recently came back strongly at critics who questioned his appointment and spoke about his methodology. Gambhir, who took over as coach eight months ago, clearly indicated that he welcomes criticism if the performance is not according to expectations. But he also made it pretty clear that the criticism levelled by some people was uncalled for and undeserved.

Without specifically mentioning anyone, Gambhir took a dig at a couple of retired Indian cricket captains from Mumbai who have repeatedly criticized him. These individuals have been loud in their criticism of his coaching, his performances in the past, and even his exit from the 2011 England tour after suffering a head injury. Gambhir vented his anger over the way some people consider Indian cricket to be their own personal fiefdom, behaving as if they own it.

He added, "I am in this profession for eight months. If there is no result, I am more than happy with criticism. But there are others who have been sitting in the commentary box for 25 years and consider Indian cricket as their personal fiefdom." Gambhir stressed that Indian cricket belongs to all 140 crore Indians and not to any individual.

Gambhir also rebutted allegations of mishandling the 2011 Champions Trophy prize money. It was former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar who questioned him in his column, whether Gambhir would emulate Rahul Dravid, who had distributed his prize money among the coaching staff. Gambhir, though, didn't like the implication and made it public that he doesn't owe anyone an explanation regarding his finances. He strongly said, "I don't need to tell anybody where I have spent money and where I have invested." Gambhir's reaction was an indicator of the difference between his strategy and the criticism he faced, bringing to attention the fact that one should look at the team and its performance and not the personal expenditure choices.

Additionally, Gambhir commented on the controversy about his walking away from the 2011 England tour due to a concussion. He pointed out how certain people had trivialized the severity of his injury during India's 0-4 rout at the hands of England. While not naming anyone, Gambhir asserted that the personal attacks on his health and judgment were unjustified. He also shared his pride in being an Indian and opposed any suggestion that he would shift abroad to evade taxation. "I will never turn NRI to save tax," Gambhir asserted, stating categorically that he will always be an Indian.

Gambhir also spoke about the persistent rumors surrounding his equation with present Indian team captain Rohit Sharma. There was some talk of strained relations between the two, but Gambhir brushed it aside. He made it clear that he has respect for Rohit and appreciates his contribution to Indian cricket.
Finally, Gautam Gambhir's reaction to his critics has been assertive and blunt. He made it amply clear that he would not stand for frivolous personal attacks and that Indian cricket is everyone's. His message was straightforward: although he welcomes constructive criticism, the personal life, financial, and professional decision attacks were unwarranted. Gambhir's firm stance reflects his allegiance to the team and his contention that cricket should always take precedence, over personal agendas.