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Anil Kumble has stepped forward to clarify his stance after fabricated quotes began circulating on social media targeting Virat Kohli’s batting struggles and Rohit Sharma‘s captaincy during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. These quotes, falsely attributed to Kumble, attempted to stir controversy amidst India’s challenging performance in the third Test against Australia.
The incident: Criticism of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The controversy erupted after social media accounts began sharing quotes under Kumble’s name, criticizing both Kohli and Rohit. One such post, shared by a user named “jod_insane,” claimed Kumble had said:
“I don’t understand why nobody is questioning Virat Kohli. He has been a walking wicket in Tests for the past five years. It’s time for him to pack his bags and settle in London forever. Anil Kumble Not Holding Back,”
Anil Kumble: "I don't understand why nobody is questioning Virat Kohli. He has been a walking wicket in Tests for the past five years. It's time for him to pack his bags and settle in London forever."
Anil Kumble Not Holding Back 🥶. pic.twitter.com/zqtw4EJ3lp
— 𝐉𝐨𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐞 (@jod_insane) December 16, 2024
This inflammatory quote attempted to pin blame on Kohli for his recent dismissals, particularly his dismissal in the third Test where he fell cheaply after a poor shot selection, leaving India in trouble.
Another post by a user named “iconicc_kohli” claimed in a tweet (now deleted) Kumble criticized Rohit for his lack of tactical planning as captain, especially his failure to counter Australia’s aggressive batter, Travis Head. The fake post alleged that Kumble said Rohit’s captaincy since his return had been underwhelming and lacked strategic clarity.
Fact check: Anil Kumble’s response on the quotes
Addressing the misinformation, Anil Kumble took to his official ‘X’ account (formerly Twitter) to set the record straight. Kumble categorically denied making any such comments regarding Kohli or Rohit, emphasizing that these fabricated statements were malicious and designed to stir unnecessary controversy during an important series. Kumble, known for his calm and dignified demeanor, firmly stated:
“I have not made any statements regarding the performance of any individual player or the team during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Any quotes attributed to me on social media are completely false. Please do not believe or spread misinformation,”
He also urged fans to rely only on his official channels for accurate updates and to remain cautious about the growing trend of fake news on social media, particularly during high-profile cricketing events.
“I urge everyone to be vigilant and not believe everything they see on social media. Please verify the authenticity of any information before sharing it. My official social media channels are the only reliable source for my views and statements,” Kohli concluded.
It has come to my attention that some social media accounts are using my image and attributing fabricated quotes to me. I want to categorically deny any association with these accounts and their content. The statements being circulated are not my views and do not reflect my…
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) December 16, 2024
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Josh Hazlewood leaves field with calf injury during Brisbane Test
Impact and the intense scrutiny
The fabricated quotes gained significant traction, adding fuel to discussions surrounding India’s struggles in the series. Kohli’s form, especially his inconsistency in Test cricket over the last few years, has been a topic of debate, and the false quotes only intensified the scrutiny. Similarly, Rohit’s captaincy has faced criticism for the lack of effective strategies, particularly in neutralizing key Australian players like Head, who has dominated Indian bowlers. However, Kumble’s intervention brings much-needed clarity, reaffirming that such comments do not reflect his views. His response also highlights the responsibility of fans and media to verify information before engaging with or amplifying such posts.
India trail Australia after rain interruptions on Day 4 at the Gabba
The 3rd Test between Australia and India in Brisbane remains delicately poised as rain interruptions halted India’s innings at 180/6 on Day 4, trailing by 265 runs. After Australia posted a formidable 445 in their first innings, thanks to Head’s aggressive 152 and Steven Smith’s measured 101, India’s response has been challenging.
KL Rahul anchored the innings with a gritty 84, showcasing impeccable judgment outside the off-stump, while Ravindra Jadeja‘s unbeaten 52 steadied India after early collapses. The top-order struggled, with key batters like Kohli (3) and Rohit (10) falling cheaply to Australia’s disciplined pace attack, led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. With India’s lower order yet to bat and persistent rain delays limiting play, the hosts remain in control. Australia’s bowlers will aim to wrap up India’s innings quickly, while the visitors will look for resistance to avoid a follow-on situation.
