Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir stirred up a whirlwind of controversy after he showed his middle finger to spectators during an Asia Cup match hosted in Sri Lanka.
Gambhir, currently part of the tournament’s commentary panel, found himself in hot water due to his unorthodox response to chants from fans in the stadium.
Indian spectators at the match were enthusiastically chanting “Kohli, Kohli” in reference to the cricketing icon Virat Kohli. However, Gambhir’s reaction to these chants left onlookers astounded. He appeared visibly upset and allegedly made an inappropriate gesture towards the fans before promptly exiting the scene. This unexpected behavior sent shockwaves through both the cricketing community and the general public, garnering widespread criticism.
Why would Indians react like a clown on the slogans for Kohli and Dhonipic.twitter.com/caaaUdhAZD
— Fidato (@tequieremos) September 4, 2023
Jhoota Munafiq!! Always using Pakistan for their cheap politics @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/yr1mn4gXND
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) September 4, 2023
Attempting to justify his actions, Gambhir pointed to the presence of Pakistani fans in the crowd who, according to him, were shouting anti-India slogans and making inflammatory comments concerning the sensitive issue of Kashmir. Gambhir argued that as an Indian, he felt compelled to defend his nation’s honor and reacted accordingly.
While patriotism is a sentiment cherished by many, Gambhir’s response was seen by some as excessive and unbecoming of a former international cricketer. His actions have reignited the ongoing, deeply complex rivalry between India and Pakistan.
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Adding to the controversy, a viral video circulating on social media showed the crowd chanting either “Kohli” or “Dhoni” as a visibly agitated Gambhir made his way back from the ground. Gambhir’s history of feuds with both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli has been a subject of discussion. Over the past decade, tensions between these cricketers have escalated, with Gambhir being accused of harboring jealousy towards Kohli’s rapid rise to prominence.
Furthermore, Gambhir has vocally criticized what he sees as excessive media praise for Dhoni’s crucial six that helped India secure the 2011 World Cup. Gambhir played a pivotal role with a remarkable 97 in a challenging run chase during that final, yet he did not receive the Player of the Match award. Dhoni, who joined the innings at number five after India had recovered to 114-3, was honored for his unbeaten 91.
Gambhir’s allegations that Dhoni received undue credit for the World Cup victory, while the contributions of other players were overlooked, have added another layer of intrigue to this already complex narrative.
Gautam Gambhir’s recent actions have reignited the flames of the India-Pakistan cricketing rivalry, shedding light on the deep emotions and complexities that surround this intense sporting feud.