In the ongoing ICC World Cup, the limelight seems to have a favourite – Virat Kohli. Whether it’s his quest to match Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record or the anticipation of another home World Cup triumph, Star Sports’ pre-game shows have been Kohli-centric.
However, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, known for his pragmatic approach, isn’t entirely pleased with the one-man show. In a viral video, Gambhir passionately emphasized the importance of focusing on the team rather than an individual player.
Gambhir, not known to mince words, shed light on the concept of underrated players. “If you score a fifty, I score a fifty, and the broadcaster is only showing me, then that other player will be called an underrated player. Who makes a player underrated? It is fans, broadcasters, and experts that make it. We have not won ICC events for a long time because we are obsessed with individual records rather than the team,” Gambhir said.
Reflecting on his own experience, Gambhir shared insights into being an underrated player despite playing a pivotal role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory. While MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 91 is etched in history, Gambhir’s crucial 97 often doesn’t get the same acknowledgement.
Gautam Gambhir brutally exposed the PR game of Star Sports who's robbing the credits of other players of Indian team.
— 𝐇𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐧 𝕏 (@ImHydro45) November 13, 2023
STAR SPORTS DIVIDING ICT
SHAME ON STAR SPORTSpic.twitter.com/0ASNPt2sCR
Expressing concern, Gambhir highlighted India’s achievements in ICC events from 2013 to 2023, stating that the team’s collective efforts are not receiving due credit. The focus remains disproportionately on Kohli, overshadowing the contributions of other key players.
While acknowledging Kohli’s significant role, Gambhir stressed the collective brilliance of players like Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, and KL Rahul. He believes that their joint efforts have been instrumental in India’s flawless performance on the group stage.
Gambhir has consistently applauded Rohit Sharma’s selfless leadership, particularly acknowledging his impactful contributions during powerplays.
As India advances to the semi-finals, facing New Zealand in Mumbai, Gambhir hopes for a shift in focus from individual glory to recognizing the team’s cohesive efforts. Gautam Gambhir’s candid remarks shed light on the balance between individual accolades and collective achievements, urging cricket enthusiasts to appreciate the team as a whole in the quest for World Cup glory.
