In the annals of Indian cricket, few names evoke as much debate and discussion as Gautam Gambhir. While his cricketing achievements are well-documented, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s premier cricketers, has recently shed light on why Gambhir should be considered a hero, not just for his runs but for his spirit and approach to the game.
Gambhir’s career, especially his role in the 2011 World Cup victory, has been a focal point for Ashwin’s admiration. “Gambhir is an inspiration,” Ashwin noted, reflecting on how Gambhir’s gritty performances under pressure were pivotal in India’s World Cup triumph. This acknowledgment isn’t just about the runs scored but about the mental fortitude Gambhir displayed, setting an example for the team and future cricketers.
“Gautam is someone I still share a very, very good relationship with because he is a very straightforward and honest guy. I think Gautam is also one of those guys that we should always be backing. He’s a hero of Indian cricket,” Ashwin said
However, Ashwin’s appreciation goes beyond Gambhir’s playing days. With Gambhir now taking the helm as the head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ashwin’s comments on X and in interviews suggest a belief in Gambhir’s vision for the team.
The relationship between Ashwin and Gambhir, both on and off the field, has been one of mutual respect. Ashwin has often highlighted Gambhir’s approach to cricket, which he believes is often misunderstood. “The biggest issue is we give hero status to someone in our mind and forget about everyone else,” Ashwin once commented, suggesting that Gambhir’s contributions, both as a player and now as a coach, are undervalued.
Gambhir’s tenure as coach has already seen its share of challenges, with a mix of victories and losses. Yet, Ashwin’s endorsement of Gautam Gambhir as a hero is not contingent on immediate results but on the values and spirit Gambhir brings to the game. His straightforwardness, honesty, and a no-nonsense approach to cricket are qualities Ashwin believes are crucial for the development of young cricketers.
“I am very glad that a lot of young kids are coming now and making a good amount of money. It is changing their livelihood, changing the status of their families. It’s unbelievable for India, for the Indian cricketing ecosystem,” he said.
Moreover, Ashwin’s comments also touch upon a broader issue in cricket – the over-reliance on coaches. He believes that while guidance is necessary, players must also find their solutions, a philosophy he sees reflected in Gambhir’s coaching style. This approach, Ashwin feels, will foster a generation of cricketers who think for themselves, a legacy Gambhir might leave beyond his playing days.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s portrayal of Gautam Gambhir as a hero of Indian cricket isn’t just about celebrating past glories but about recognizing the ongoing impact Gambhir has on the sport. His leadership, both as a player and now as a coach, embodies the spirit of cricket that Ashwin and many others in the cricketing community admire. Gambhir’s journey, from a gritty opener to a coach with a vision, continues to inspire, making him, in Ashwin’s words, “an undeniable hero of Indian cricket.”
