Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant scored centuries in both innings of the Leeds Test match against England. Vice-captain Pant scored 134 in the first innings and 118 in the second. Despite this incredible performance, India lost the match to England by 5 wickets.
Gambhir's Comment Sparks Controversy!
Following the match, when queried about Pant's centuries, Team India's Coach Gautam Gambhir reacted heatedly. Interrupting the reporter, Gambhir retorted, 'There were three more centuries too. They're quite significant as well. Thank you.'
Gambhir further elaborated, 'I would have preferred if you highlighted Yashasvi Jaiswal's century, Shubman Gill's debut century as captain, and KL Rahul's hundred alongside Pant's two. Five centuries were scored in total. It was a remarkable start, though the question could have been framed better.'
The essence of Gambhir's message was clear: team success outweighs individual glory. Gambhir, who has long reminded audiences that the 2011 World Cup was won by the whole team, not just a single six, appears to disfavor individualism in sports. If asked to choose between Usain Bolt or Michael Phelps, he might cheekily answer 'relay team.'
Source: aajtak
As for the Leeds Test, Gambhir's remarks fueled social media intrigue. Was there animosity between Gambhir and Pant? Was it difficult for Gambhir to credit Pant? Why was Pant benched during the Champions Trophy? Why isn't he on the T20I team? And why the constant reminder to perform well in Tests?
Former cricketer Ajay Jadeja shared a story that further stoked the '#GambhirVsPant' narrative. In the 2015 Ranji season, Pant wasn't initially chosen for the starting lineup. According to Jadeja, Gambhir, as team captain, and the selectors, discussed team combinations.
Pant, left out, reportedly told Jadeja, 'When they need me, they'll call me from home.' His words weren't of resentment but of confidence, showcasing Pant's patience and belief. Yet, this was sensationalized into a 'Gambhir vs. Pant' tale.
Is Discord Real Between Them?
There's no clash between Gambhir and Pant—pure speculation without substance. Team India is undergoing a transition, and Gambhir is guiding this shift. With Kohli and Sharma retiring from Tests, Shubman Gill became captain and Pant vice-captain, all supported by Gambhir.
Let's not forget that Gambhir lauded Pant after the historic victory at Gabba in 2021. In IPL 2018, Gambhir, as Delhi Capitals' captain, witnessed Pant's stellar 618-run season, his best in any IPL so far.
