When Shane Warne called Gautam Gambhir 'annoying' for allegedly disrespecting Rahul Dravid
There was a time when Gambhir was labelled among the 'top 3 annoying cricketers on the planet' after an alleged spat with Rahul Dravid during an IPL game in 2013.
In a significant turn of events, Gautam Gambhir recently assumed the role of Team India's new head coach, succeeding Rahul Dravid. Ahead of the first T20I against Sri Lanka, Dravid surprised Gambhir with an unexpected message.
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Passing the baton of head coach
The BCCI shared a video where Dravid extended his welcome to Gambhir and reminisced about his own successful tenure, including the T20 World Cup 2024 victory.
"Hello, Gautam, and welcome to the most exciting job in our world... I also wish you that little bit of luck. As you know, that all of us coaches need to make us look a little bit wiser and smarter than we actually are," Dravid conveyed.
??????? ?? ??? ????? ???? ????? & ?????! ?
¡ª BCCI (@BCCI) July 27, 2024
To,
Gautam Gambhir ?
From,
Rahul Dravid ?#TeamIndia | #SLvIND | @GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/k33X5GKHm0
Dravid commended Gambhir¡¯s dedication and resilience, traits that were evident during his playing days and as an IPL mentor. He advised Gambhir to maintain a positive outlook, even during challenging times, and highlighted the unwavering support from both players and fans. Overwhelmed by the gesture, Gambhir expressed his deep respect for Dravid, calling him "the most selfless cricketer." He vowed to lead with honesty and to uphold Dravid¡¯s legacy with pride.
Gambhir & Dravid's alleged spat in 2013
This heartwarming exchange displayed a strong camaraderie between Dravid and Gambhir. However, there was a time when Gambhir was labelled among the 'top 3 annoying cricketers on the planet' after an alleged spat with Rahul Dravid during an IPL game in 2013.
On May 3, 2013, Kolkata Knight Riders faced Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens. Chasing a modest total of 133, Gambhir and Manvinder Bisla were guiding KKR¡¯s innings. Shane Watson, frustrated after conceding 10 runs in an over, sledged Bisla in the next over, prompting Gambhir to react. When Dravid intervened to diffuse the situation, a verbal exchange ensued between Gambhir, Bisla, and Dravid.
Despite Kolkata¡¯s victory, Gambhir faced heavy criticism on social media for his on-field behaviour. Fans lambasted the KKR captain for his attitude towards Dravid. Australian spin legend Shane Warne, who led the Rajasthan Royals to an IPL title in 2008, also criticised Gambhir.
Question cricket followers - is Ghambir in the top 3 annoying cricketers on the planet ??? #IPL
¡ª Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) May 3, 2013
"Question cricket followers - is Gambhir in the top 3 annoying cricketers on the planet ???," Warne tweeted.
Also Read: 'Woh aapko apne decisions banane dete hai': Rohit Sharma & Rishabh Pant honour mentors Rahul Dravid & MS Dhoni
The following morning, Gambhir clarified that he had not disrespected Dravid during the incident.
Guys, u have got it all wrong. No harsh words exchanged between me n Rahul bhai. He was n will always be a respected teammate. No fuss plz
¡ª Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 3, 2013
"Guys, u have got it all wrong. No harsh words exchanged between me n Rahul bhai. He was n will always be a respected teammate. No fuss plz," Gambhir tweeted.
Also Read: Gautam Gambhir's top 5 legendary innings: Reliving the heroics that defined two World Cup finals
Guess we are always obsessed wid some drama or spice. Sorry none existed between me and rahul. Always respect him.
¡ª Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 3, 2013
"Guess we are always obsessed wid some drama or spice. Sorry none existed between me and rahul. Always respect him," he added in a subsequent tweet.
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