Gautam Gambhir has made the habit of making outspoken statements that can sting anyone. Post-retirement he has been in news for making outrageous statements on him arch-nemesis like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. The recent example is his bold statement on MS Dhoni questioning his integrity by giving bold statement on Dhoni unavailability for the upcoming series.
He said that one can’t choose which series to play, when it comes to playing for the nation. “I have always said that the decision to retire is anyone’s personal call. I feel the selectors should talk to Dhoni and ask him about his plans because if you play for India, you cannot select the series you want to play,” Gambhir said as quoted by News 18.
The former Indian opener also felt that the team management should persist with Rishabh Pant and groom him for the future, he is an unbelievable talent and should be backed totally.
“I feel if you focus solely on a young player, who has been in the international arena for just around a year, he will feel the pressure. In such a short time, he (Pant) has smashed two Test tons. If you don’t find his shot selections ideal, it is his style of play. If you give him a chance in the team then kindly back him and it is wrong to criticise him so early.
“Not only (Virat) Kohli but also coach Ravi Shastri should talk to Pant. It is the duty of the team management to personally talk to the player who is not in form or if he is not perfect with his shot selection as it would help him improve and regain his touch. There is a need to give him freedom,” he added.
When asked about Rohit Sharma inclusion in the test squad as an opener , he replied “Rohit slammed five centuries in the World Cup and so, his inclusion in the team is not a surprise. If you have drafted him in the team then you should include him in the playing XI as well as he is a great batsman and I think he is ready for the challenge,”.
When asked about Bumrah missing the three match home series against South Africa, the opener accepted that team India is going to miss Bumrah presence with the ball. He said “He is the number one bowler in Test cricket. Surely, the team will miss him. Bumrah is undoubtedly a great challenge for any team in any format of the game and his absence will affect the side,”
Gambhir also expressed his views on conflict of interest charge put on Rahul Dravid “It is a tough question. Nothing could be better for the country and the youngsters if Dravid is the NCA coach, “he said.
