Although India advanced to the ICC Champions Trophy final, fans were disappointed not to see Virat Kohli score his 52nd century in the format. Kohli was dismissed while attempting a big hit off Adam Zampa’s bowling, finding the fielder at long-on.
Upon returning to the dressing room, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir appeared to express his disapproval of the shot selection to Virat Kohli.
Social media footage shows Gambhir and Kohli engaged in a lively conversation. Gambhir seemed to question the necessity of such an aggressive shot at that point in the game.
Gambhir was seemingly heard saying, “KL Rahul was already hitting well,” to Kohli as he entered the dressing room after being dismissed.
However, in a later press conference, Gambhir was full of admiration for Virat. He praised Kohli’s consistent dominance in the 50-over format of international cricket for India.
“He is an exceptional one-day cricketer,” Gambhir stated to the media after the match. “He understands how to construct his innings, whether batting first or chasing. He adapts to conditions very quickly. This experience and high-quality play are crucial, which is why he has such a remarkable record in one-day cricket, and I hope he continues this form in the future.”
Gambhir hopes to see Virat maintain his excellent form in the Champions Trophy as India prepares to face the winner of the semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa in the final match on Sunday.