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In a candid revelation during the commentary session for the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023 between South Africa and Australia at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Gautam Gambhir opened up about the circumstances that led to his exclusion from the Indian team. A key figure in India’s World Cup triumphs in 2007 and 2011, Gambhir highlighted the role of subpar coaching in his eventual departure from the national side.
Gautam Gambhir’s candid revelation: Coaching woes and ouster from Team India
The left-handed opener pointed out how a phase of inconsistent form, marked by three unsuccessful pull shots during the tour of Pakistan, resulted in his ouster from the team. Gambhir criticized coaches who discourage players from playing certain shots, emphasizing that this approach hampers a player’s natural game.
“I was dropped from Team India after being dismissed thrice while playing pull-shot. I asked the management if the same thing would have happened had I lost my wicket while playing cover drive,” Gambhir said.
“If a player gets out playing cover drive and square cut, the coach will not say anything, but if the dismissal comes on pull or hook shots, the willow holder is dropped,” the 42-year-old added.
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Importance of positive coaching and encouragement
Gambhir stressed the significance of coaches maintaining a positive and constructive approach, especially when players face challenges with specific shots. Instead of discouragement, he advocated for encouragement and providing technical guidance to enhance a player’s skills.
“A batter is instructed to stop playing a particular shot if it results in his failures. This is not how cricket is played. The coach’s job is to help a player to get better while executing a difficult stroke,” the Delhi-born cricketer concluded.
Crucial contributions in World Cup triumphs
Gambhir, renowned for his pivotal performances in high-stakes matches, played a crucial part in India’s victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. His valiant innings in the finals of both tournaments underscored his ability to perform under pressure.
