India head coach Gautam Gambhir has fired back at Sunil Gavaskar after the former India captain questioned Gambhir’s share of the Champions Trophy 2025 prize money. Speaking at the ABP News ‘India At 2047’ Summit, Gambhir launched a pointed response without directly naming Gavaskar but leaving little doubt about who the comments were aimed at.
The controversy began when Gavaskar, in his Sportstar column, questioned whether Gambhir would follow Rahul Dravid’s footsteps by declining extra money. Dravid had previously refused the BCCI’s additional ₹2.5 crore bonus after the T20 World Cup 2024, opting instead to take an equal share with his support staff.
“Indian Cricket Is Not Someone’s Property”: Gambhir
Gambhir expressed frustration with what he termed constant commentary box scrutiny over his decisions, records, and even personal matters like prize money and past concussions.
“Some people have been sitting in the commentary box for 25 years, questioning everything I did… They think Indian cricket is their property. It’s not. It’s the identity of 140 crore Indians,” Gambhir stated.
He also questioned the patriotism of unnamed critics, taking a jibe at their NRI status and tax-saving practices:
“I’m an Indian, and I’ll remain one till my last breath. I won’t become an NRI to save tax… People living in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.”
Gambhir on Criticism and His Coaching Focus
In his eight-month stint as head coach, Gambhir’s tenure has seen mixed results — a Champions Trophy win, but Test series defeats against New Zealand and Australia. However, Gambhir made it clear he’s not concerned with media or commentator opinions.
“I don’t have to answer to people in the commentary box, YouTubers, or broadcasters. My focus is the fan, the child watching under the sun for 7 hours — that’s who I coach for.”
Gambhir emphasized that he accepts criticism and understands the ups and downs of his role. He said that his sole goal is to make India proud and remain dedicated to his job till the end of his coaching tenure.
What’s Next for Team India?
Gambhir’s next challenge will be the five-match Test series against England, where he’ll look to bounce back from earlier Test losses and reinforce his legacy as a results-focused, no-nonsense coach.
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