India head coach Gautam Gambhir has strongly refuted the former Indian cricketer’s comments chris srikanthWho raised questions on the inclusion of the young fast bowler Harshit Rana In the ODI team for the upcoming Australia tour. Srikkanth, while speaking on his YouTube channel, had alleged that Rana’s selection was influenced by Gambhir and he was labeled as a coach.yes manDue to his previous association in Indian Premier League But Kolkata Knight Riders,
Gautam Gambhir defends Harshit Rana’s Australia call-up against Kris Srikkanth and critics
After India won the series west indies In second testGambhir addressed the allegations directly in the press conference. He referred to Srikanth’s comment asshameful“And unfair, given that targeting a 23-year-old player for personal or media gain could seriously damage a young cricketer’s self-confidence.”It is not appropriate for a YouTube channel to target a young boy. His father is not a former chairman, former cricketer or an NRI. He has made his place with his performance only.“Gambhir said.
The head coach highlighted the mental impact such public criticism has on emerging talents at the national level and warned that the spread of social media could increase the damage. He urged critics to judge players based on their on-field results rather than assumptions about personal equations or biases. ,Criticize me, that’s okay. I can handle it. But don’t do this to a 23 year old cricketerGambhir strongly defended Rana.
Gambhir’s comments also sparked debate over the greater responsibility India has to maintain integrity and impartiality in public discussions about cricket. ,Indian cricket belongs to all of us – fans, players, coaches, former players. Along with this comes the moral responsibility not to make baseless personal allegations.“He confirmed.
Harshit Rana’s rise and inclusion in Australia tour
Rana, a promising fast bowler from Delhi, has steadily earned a place in the national team since Gambhir became the head coach last year. Having featured in two Tests, five ODIs and three T20Is, Rana’s most recent appearance came during the India asia cup Drive, contribute to team success. He was selected for the three-match ODI series against AustraliaThe event, which begins on October 19, marks another important step in his budding career.
The controversy stems from perceptions about Rana’s IPL background under Gambhir at KKR, with critics questioning the merit-based selection. However, Rana’s supporters point to his domestic performances and contribution in limited international matches as justification for his place in the team. The tour of Australia presents a crucial opportunity for the fast bowler to silence his opponents and cement his place in the team ahead of a busy cricket calendar.
India’s coaching setup, led by Gambhir, advocates supporting young talent to ensure a steady shake-up in the team’s fast-bowling rotation, especially as several seniors manage the workload ahead of high-profile tournaments. The team’s impressive 2-0 Test series win over West Indies has boosted morale for the tour of Australia, where conditions are expected to be challenging for both bowlers and batsmen.
While Rana’s selection has sparked heated debate, Gambhir’s defense underlines the growing emphasis within Indian cricket culture to protect young players from personal attacks. The ODI series against Australia will be the real test of Rana’s abilities and an opportunity to turn the narrative from controversy to performance.
