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Former cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu has strongly defended India head coach Gautam Gambhir, hitting back at critics after India’s hard-fought 2-2 Test series draw in England. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Sidhu asked pointedly, “Will you stand up and greet him now?” — a message aimed at those who had questioned Gambhir’s leadership.
The series, marked by intense competition, was India’s first major overseas challenge following the Test retirements of senior stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Despite the pressure, the youthful squad led by Gambhir pulled off a memorable win at The Oval and held England to a drawn series.
Sidhu praised Gambhir for his conviction, especially for showing faith in emerging players like Akash Deep and Washington Sundar. “Everyone’s quick to blame Gambhir when the team falters,” Sidhu said. “But today, after a gutsy performance, those same people should acknowledge his role.”
While there was criticism over the exclusion of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, Sidhu stood by Gambhir’s selections. “Yes, Kuldeep may have been the better option, but Gambhir had conviction in his choices. He backed his players and believed in the transition,” Sidhu added.
According to Sidhu, this series marked a turning point. “Gambhir saw opportunity where others saw a void. He told us not to worry about missing big names and to focus on who could rise to the occasion. That belief has paid off,” he remarked.
He drew comparisons with iconic overseas victories like Brisbane and Perth, crediting young talent for scripting history. Gambhir, under immense pressure after a poor home series against New Zealand and a tough Australia tour, has now restored confidence with a bold, long-term vision for Indian Test cricket.
