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Navjot Singh Sidhu praised coach Gautam Gambhir for his steadfastness during India’s tough England tour, leading to a 2-2 draw. Sidhu urged critics to recognise Gambhir’s success.
Gautam Gambhir and Navjot Singh Sidhu (AP and PTI)
Former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu on Wednesday praised current head coach Gautam Gambhir for his steadfastness during the challenging England tour and questioned his critics if they would now acknowledge him for the 2-2 draw in the UK.
India, who embarked on the tour shortly after the retirements of Test stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, played remarkable cricket across five fiercely contested Test matches to secure a commendable draw against England on their home turf.
Reflecting on the result, achieved through a splendid victory in the series decider at the Oval, Sidhu noted that Gambhir also deserves recognition for the team’s success.
“We do a lot of hero-worshipping. I want to say that whenever India plays even a little badly, anyone and everyone climbs on Gautam Gambhir and blames him. Will you stand up and greet him today?” Sidhu qas quoted as saying on his YouTube channel.
What Did Navjot Singh Sidhu Say About Gautam Gambhir?
Sidhu suggested that trying out wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav might have been beneficial but credited Gambhir for persisting with his approach despite criticism and for giving opportunities to younger players.
“It was Gautam Gambhir who insisted on this transition, who gave opportunities to guys like Akash Deep and Washington. Yes, Kuldeep was maybe a better option. But he had conviction. There will be scope for improvement today and tomorrow as well. But for someone who has been questioned and criticised so much, today give him the due that he deserves.”
Sidhu added: “There were many unknowns when the team went who had not made their name. Gambhir had told three to four big names are missing from the team but think of it as an opportunity for others to establish themselves.
“His words have proven to be true. Be it Brisbane, Perth, or England, history has been scripted by youngsters and it is a big thing.”
Gambhir entered the England series under pressure following an unprecedented Test series whitewash at home to New Zealand and setbacks in Australia.
Sidhu recalled how Gambhir had encouraged the youngsters before the tour to see it as a major opportunity to make a mark.
(With inputs from PTI)
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A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses, features, live scores, results, stats and everything that’s cricket from all over the globe. Follow @cricketnext
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