Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has put to rest all speculations regarding his relationship with Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli, emphasizing that the two share a friendly bond that remains unaffected by past on-field incidents.
In recent years, fans witnessed a few heated exchanges between Kohli and Gambhir during IPL matches—particularly a tense face-off during IPL 2023 when Gambhir, then mentor of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), confronted Kohli following a fiery clash involving Naveen-ul-Haq. However, ever since Gambhir took over the reins as Team India’s head coach, the two have been seen sharing cordial moments, signaling a change in dynamics.
Speaking at the ABP Summit, Gambhir addressed the issue directly:
“We were friends, we are friends, and we are going to remain friends. What happens on the field stays on the field. It’s important to fight for your team when you’re playing for different franchises, but that doesn’t change the personal equation off the field.”
He pointed out that public perception is often swayed by media portrayals, which don’t always reflect reality.
“People don’t need to know what kind of relationship we share off the field, and frankly, they never will. Some used our past arguments for views and TRP, without any real understanding of what went on.”
Taking a strong stand against sensationalist media, Gambhir criticized a journalist for interfering and dramatizing the IPL altercation without adequate research.
“A journalist interfered just for views. He didn’t even do proper homework. That’s not journalism—it’s opportunism.”
Gambhir emphasized that while they might have been opponents on the field representing different franchises, their personal respect and camaraderie remain untouched.
“It is still not important, for anyone in this country, to know what relationship I share with Virat. I’ve said this very clearly – we were, we are, and we will always remain friends. And more importantly, we must continue to admire what Virat has done for Indian cricket.”
In a lighter vein, Gambhir added:
“It’s just two Delhi boys having fun. If that’s a problem, I’ll tell BCCI to stop posting about us on social media.”
His remarks come as a refreshing change from the speculation-driven narrative often pushed online and in media circles. Both Gambhir and Kohli, being proud Delhiites and passionate competitors, have had their fair share of intense moments, but their mutual respect, as reiterated by Gambhir, stands firm.
With India preparing for a crucial phase under Gambhir’s leadership, this clarity on his relationship with Kohli will likely put to rest any doubts about dressing room harmony or professional collaboration. As fans look ahead to the future of Indian cricket, seeing two legends united for the nation’s cause offers a promising sight.
