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'No One Can Walk Over My Players': Gambhir On Heated Clash With Kohli Post Naveen Saga

image-lpwhnpzoVirat Kohli & Naveen-ul-Haq were involved in an intense altercation 

Former Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor, Gautam Gambhir revisited a notable on-field incident that sparked widespread controversy during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023.


Gautam Gambhir justifies his spat with Virat Kohli

The incident in question involved a heated altercation between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star, Virat Kohli, and LSG pacer Naveen-ul-Haq, which erupted following RCB's victory over LSG. The clash didn't just stay between the players; it further intensified when Gambhir himself got involved, leading to a fiery exchange with Kohli.

In the aftermath, Gambhir, who is a respected figure in cricket, was subjected to significant criticism and even trolling for his decision to intervene in the dispute between the players. Breaking his silence on the matter, Gambhir recently spoke to ANI, providing a detailed explanation of his actions and thoughts during the heated moment.

Gambhir highlighted his role and responsibilities as a mentor, underlining his commitment to protecting and standing up for his players. He pointed out that while he maintains a policy of non-interference during the game, the dynamics change post-match. The southpaw firmly believes that it is his right and duty to defend his players if they are confronted or provoked after the game has concluded.

“As a mentor, no one can come and walk over my players, and I have got a very different belief. Till the time the game was on, I had no right to interfere. Once the game was over, if someone still gets into a heated argument with my players, I have got all the right to defend them,” said Gambhir.


The Gambhir-Kohli confrontation had swiftly become a major talking point in IPL 2023, drawing intense scrutiny and debate among fans and commentators alike. The seriousness of the altercation was highlighted by the hefty penalties imposed: Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 percent of their match fees for their roles in the incident, while Naveen-ul-Haq received a 50% fine.

It is worth mentioning that Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq turned a new leaf in their relationship during the World Cup 2023 clash between India and Afghanistan a couple of months ago. The duo exchanged a sincere handshake and a hug, symbolically burying their past IPL animosity on the global stage. However, the air of suspense lingers as to whether Gambhir has also reached a similar detente.