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"I'm Not Coach Of Cozy Club": Gautam Gambhir Rips Critics With 'Unpolitical' Remark

Soumyajit Dutta

Gautam Gambhir [Source: @vicharabhio/X]Gautam Gambhir [Source: @vicharabhio/X]

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for his no non-sense approach and his recent media interaction also witnessed the same in his thoughts. Notably, Gambhir has dismissed mounting scrutiny over his leadership approach, doubling down on his mission to prioritize national pride over external approval. 

The former opener, instrumental in India’s 2007 and 2011 World Cup wins, stressed accountability and fearlessness as pillars of his tenure. 

Gambhir's Scathing Attack on Critics

Addressing perceptions of Indian cricket as a "personal domain," he targeted critics, particularly former players turned commentators while reaffirming his focus on building a team that embodies grit over politics.

"When I took up this job, I knew there would always be ups and downs. My job is to make the country proud, not please a few individuals sitting in air-conditioned commentary boxes. Some people sitting in the commentary box for 25 years think Indian cricket is their family fiefdom. It’s not. It belongs to the people of India," Gambhir stated as quoted by TOI.

Gautam Gambhir’s combative stance comes amid debates around his early decisions and legacy. Known for his headstrong persona, he framed his role as a custodian of public trust rather than a participant in behind-the-scenes power plays. 

Gambhir On The Prize Money Debacle

His remarks also revisited past controversies, including critiques of his financial choices, as he positioned himself as a staunch nationalist committed to India’s cricketing future.

“They even questioned my prize money. These NRIs make money from India but become NRIs to save tax. I’m not a coach of any cozy club or lobby. I don’t believe in playing politics. I’m here to build a team that plays fearlessly and with pride.”

Gambhir further made a cut-throat remark on the commentators stressing the fact that Indian cricket is not answerable to anyone.

“Commentators should realise – cricket kisi ki jaagir nahi hai (cricket is not anyone’s private property). These people go abroad and become NRIs. I will stay in India and pay my taxes here.”

Gambhir Eyes India vs England Series

Meanwhile, Gambhir hasn't been in the headlines lately. Since the IPL commenced in March, though Gambhir is keeping his eyes peeled for the England series in June, the head coach wasn't spotted in any of the IPL arenas. 

With Indian cricketers in good touch, as seen in the IPL, Gambhir will be looking forward to bagging the series comfortably. However, a key bowler for the Whites, Mohammed Shami, looks to be struggling in the IPL even though he is expected to perform with the red ball.