Cricket is a game of partnerships, and when it comes to memorable opening pairs, Gautam Gambhir’s name resonates prominently in the cricketing world. From the triumphs of the 2007 T20 World Cup to the glorious 2011 World Cup victory, Gambhir was an indispensable part of the Indian cricket team from 2004 to 2016.
Gambhir played a pivotal role in India’s victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 World Cup. He emerged as the top scorer in the finals of both tournaments, showcasing his mettle on the grandest stages.
Gambhir, in partnership with Virender Sehwag, formed one of the most formidable opening pairs in cricket history. Their dynamic and aggressive approach laid the foundation for India’s success across formats. The duo’s partnership witnessed memorable moments, contributing significantly to India’s triumphs.
In a surprising revelation, Gambhir named former India captain MS Dhoni as his favourite batting partner. Contrary to popular belief, he expressed a deep affinity for batting with Dhoni, especially in white-ball cricket.
Gambhir shared insights in an interview with Sportskeeda, stating, “My favourite batting partner was MS Dhoni. People think that it was Virender Sehwag, but I actually love playing more with Dhoni, especially in white-ball cricket. We shared big partnerships.”
One of the most memorable partnerships between Gambhir and Dhoni occurred in the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka. With India in a precarious position, the duo stitched together a crucial 109-run stand, steering India to victory. Gambhir’s 97 and Dhoni’s unbeaten 91 in the final showcased their ability to handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most. Dhoni, rightfully, was adjudged the Man of the Match.
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Gambhir’s preference for Dhoni over Sehwag goes beyond statistics. It reflects a unique chemistry and understanding that translated into match-winning performances.
Gambhir’s revelation sparked discussions on social media, with fans expressing surprise and sharing their views on the unexpected preference for Dhoni.
Gambhir’s excellence was acknowledged with the ICC Test Player of the Year award in 2009, a testament to his consistency and skill in the longer format. The former opener reached the number one spot in the ICC rankings, solidifying his status as one of the premier batters in international cricket.
