Gautam Gambhir came to Virat Kohli’s defense after former Australian captain Ricky Ponting criticized Kohli’s continued spot in the Indian Test squad despite a perceived dip in form. Addressing the media before India’s series against Australia, Gambhir dismissed Ponting’s comments, emphasizing that Ponting has no business questioning Indian cricket.
He pointed out that Kohli, along with Rohit Sharma, has already accomplished much for the team and continues to contribute. Gambhir maintained that Indian cricket values Kohli’s experience and character, saying, “What does Ponting have to do with Indian cricket? He should focus on Australian cricket.”
Confidence in Kohli and Rohit’s Dedication
During the press conference, Gambhir highlighted Kohli and Rohit’s relentless work ethic, underscoring how their commitment and passion benefit Indian cricket. Acknowledging recent setbacks, Gambhir argued that the pair’s motivation and resilience set them apart, affirming his belief in their ability to bounce back. “For me, the most important thing is that they still work really hard and remain passionate,” Gambhir shared. He emphasized that such dedication is essential to the team’s culture, particularly after a disappointing series against New Zealand, which has only fueled their hunger for success.
Ponting’s Concerns Over Kohli’s Form
Earlier, Ricky Ponting had questioned whether Kohli’s limited run of hundreds over the past five years should be a concern for India’s selectors, expressing surprise at Kohli’s stats during an ICC review. Ponting remarked that few top-order batsmen with only two or three centuries in five years would still retain their positions in other international teams.
Despite Ponting’s concerns, Gambhir’s defense of Kohli reiterated his trust in Kohli’s resilience and future contributions to Indian cricket, suggesting that past accomplishments and current dedication justify his place in the squad.
Gautam Gambhir’s unwavering support for Virat Kohli underscores his belief in the veteran’s value to Indian cricket, regardless of recent criticisms like those from Ricky Ponting. Gambhir trusts Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s commitment and hunger for success, viewing their dedication as crucial to the team’s ethos, especially after a tough series loss.
By dismissing Ponting’s remarks, Gambhir reinforced that India’s cricketing decisions are grounded in respect for players’ proven abilities and their ongoing contributions, making it clear that Kohli’s legacy and current effort hold more weight than recent statistical dips.
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