Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) player Rahmanullah Gurbaz has strongly defended Gautam Gambhir, saying the criticism directed at the India head coach after the 0–2 Test series defeat to South Africa is unfair and baseless. India’s recent struggles in red-ball cricket — including a 0–3 loss in New Zealand and the defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy — have sparked calls for Gambhir’s removal. But Gurbaz believes the backlash ignores his achievements and leadership qualities.
Speaking to PTI, the Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter said public outrage doesn't reflect the reality inside the dressing room. “If your country has 1.4 billion people, maybe 2–3 million will be against him. The rest stand with Gautam sir and Team India. It doesn’t make sense to talk about those few,” Gurbaz said.
Calling Gambhir the “best coach and human being” he has worked with, Gurbaz praised his mentorship and approach to leadership. “He’s the best coach and mentor I’ve had in my career. I love the way he thinks and works.”
Gurbaz highlighted that India’s recent victories — the Champions Trophy (ODI) and the Asia Cup (T20) — have come under Gambhir’s stewardship. “They have won so many series. You can’t blame them for one setback,” he added.
"Not strict, but disciplined"
Gurbaz, who played under Gambhir at KKR during their 2024 IPL title-winning season, described the coach as firm yet supportive.
“He made the environment very easy for us — no stress, nothing overly strict. That’s why we won. He’s disciplined, but he’s strict only when discipline is broken,” he said.
Gambhir is currently with the Indian team during the ongoing ODI series in South Africa.
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