Former India opener Gautam Gambhir turned 42 today. Born on October 14, 1981, Gambhir made his ODI debut for India in 2003 against Scotland. Known for his commitment, grit and perseverance, he has been a vital cog in the Indian team for many years.
During his tenure spanning over 13 years, Gambhir has played many significant knocks for India which led to memorable wins in the history of Indian cricket. He was an integral part of the Dhoni-led side that won the ICC World T20 in 2007 and the 50-over World Cup in 2011.
On the 42nd birthday of the greatest opener, let’s take a look at some of his memorable knocks during his international career:
75 Vs Pakistan: In the final of the inaugural World T20 2007, Gambhir steadied the ship for India at one end with a stroke filled 75 runs against arch-rivals Pakistan in Johannesburg, 2007. His knock was instrumental in India’s win in the final.
83 Vs Pakistan: During the 2010 Asia Cup, Gambhir again rose to the occasion with a composed knock of 83 in a high pressure game against Pakistan in Dambulla, Sri-lanka. His heroic efforts led India towards a memorable win.
97 Vs Sri-lanka in World Cup 2011 final: Chasing a competitive target of 275 runs, Gambhir held played one of his best knocks under pressure in the final. His 97 was a hallmark of credibility and determination. This knock will remain one of high points in Gambhir’s international career.
Match saving 137 against New Zealand: During the 2009 test series, India were in a precarious position while trying to save the test, Gambhir batted for 11 hours as he made
137 runs off 436 balls. His grit and patience was the evident in that test match.
Love for the Armed forces
It was pure destiny and had I not played Ranji Trophy in 12th (standard), I would have definitely gone into the NDA because that was my first love and it still remains my first love. In fact, my only regret in life is that I couldn't join the army," Gambhir said at a book launch.
"So when I got into cricket I decided that the best thing I can do now is contribute in what has always been my first love and I started this foundation that looks after the children of all the martyrs."
Sportsmanship in the match Vs Sri-lanka in 2009
"I remember we were chasing 330 runs and we lost Sachin and Sehwag early. I was a game to be won and the series as well, I thought that Virat batted really well and scored his first international hundred. I thought to make a little special for him as whenever he would see that trophy, and then it would remind him of his first international century," Gambhir said in an interview.
5 High points in Gambhir’s cricket career
1-He led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014 respectively. He was praised for his captaincy skills and how he marshaled his players in order to win the trophy.
2-ICC Test Player of Year in 2009: After scoring 727 runs at an outstanding average of 90, he was awarded with the ICC Test player of the year.
3-He is the only batsman to score more than 300 runs in four consecutive test matches. He achieved this milestone in 2009 when he was in excellent form.
4-Following his great form in 2009, He was the No 1 ranked test batsman in the world
5-After joining Bhartiya Janata Party in 2019, he won the East Delhi Lok Sabha seat.
Gambhir played 58 Test matches and 147 ODIs for India scoring 4154 runs and 5238 runs respectively in the two formats.