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Gautam Gambhir Blasts Former Cricketers for Endorsing Pan Masala: Calls It 'Disgusting and Disappointing'

image-livj6npmGautam Gambhir talks on cricketers promoting tobacco (Source: Twitter)

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer, has been making headlines consistently with his outspoken statements for several years. In a recent instance, the 41-year-old veteran recently voiced his disapproval of fellow cricketers who endorse pan masala through alternative products in advertisements. Gambhir expressed his disappointment with this practice, highlighting the negative impact it can have on public health. 

In the recent edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, many former cricketers were seen featured in ads like pan masala products. Being such a renowned athlete and endorsing such harmful tobacco brands can lead to misleading many youths.

In a recent interview of Gautam Gambhir with News 18, Gambhir was asked about his opinion of the former cricketers endorsing 'Pan Masala'. Gautam Gambhir expressed his reaction to the situation using two succinct words "Disgusting and Disappointing."

Money Cannot Be That Important - Gautam Gambhir

The ex-Delhi Capitals captain made a bold statement by saying that money cannot be that important that you start endorsing such products. Given that millions of children consider these cricketers as their role models, endorsing such brands should be cautious about their actions.

"Crores of youth are seeing them, and money is not that important that you will do any pan masala ad. There are many other ways to earn money. Even if one has to let go of some money-making opportunity, as one is a role model of the youth, one has to have that courage," he said.

Gautam Gambhir highlighted that he voluntarily relinquished his salary after retiring midway through the 2018 season of the Indian Premier League.

"In 2018, when I stepped down as the captain of the Delhi Capitals, I had given up on three crores. I could have pocketed that money, but I feel I should get only what I deserve and not what I want," Gambhir further added.

Furthermore, Gautam Gambhir concluded by highlighting the point that cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar had categorically refused to participate in such endorsements in the past.