Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli share heated exchange after Kohli strikes out of semi-final without century
Even though India advanced to the ICC Champions Trophy final, the cricket community lost out on the incredible chance to see another century from Virat Kohli. As he attempted to get a maximum off Adam Zampa’s bowling, he was bowled just short of reaching his 52nd century in the format. But Kohli was only able to locate the long-on fielder. Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of India, appeared to express his displeasure with the way the star batsman was dismissed as Kohli made his way back to the changing room.
In the images and videos circulating on social media, it appears that Gambhir and Kohli engaged in a spirited conversation, during which the head coach explained why the batter’s shot was unnecessary at that point in the game.
It appears that Gambhir said to Kohli, “Maar toh raha tha woh (KL Rahul was already hitting)” as the latter walked into the dressing room following his dismissal.
However, during the press conference later, Gambhir praised Virat, commending the way the star batter continues to dominate the 50-over format in international cricket for India.
“He is a phenomenal one-day cricketer. He knows how to plan his runs, he knows how to plan, whether he is batting first or chasing and he knows that he adapts to the conditions really quickly and that is why experience and high-quality players are very important and it is the reason why he has got that kind of record in one-day cricket and I hope he continues to do that in the future as well,” Gambhir said to the press following the match on Tuesday.
Gambhir expressed hope that Virat would maintain his strong form in the Champions Trophy as India faces New Zealand the final on Sunday.
There were many reactions to their animated exchange on social media, some of which are pictured below.
Virat Kohli: Thoda sahi se bat pe nahi aayi.
Gautam Gambhir: Thoda aur ruk jata, khatm karke hi aata. #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/YNYrfJ9pd7
— MUFA (@MufaAdani) March 4, 2025
Gautam Gambhir reaction to Kohli's dismissal pic.twitter.com/uRQofr6IJP
— Aditya (@Hurricanrana_27) March 4, 2025
Gambhir saab totally upset with kohli. 🥲 pic.twitter.com/ABmrAgnPhV
— Kohlistic🔥 (@Kohlistic18) March 4, 2025
