India head coach Gautam Gambhir has sharply criticised former India captain Kris Srikkanth for suggesting that fast bowler Harshit Rana was picked in the national squad due to personal connections. The row began after Srikkanth, on his YouTube channel, alleged that Rana’s inclusion was a result of his “closeness” to Gambhir.
Gambhir defends Rana’s merit
Gambhir, known for his outspoken nature, termed Srikkanth’s remarks “shameful and unfair.” He said targeting a 23-year-old cricketer without evidence was damaging and uncalled for. “You can criticise performance, but to attack a player’s selection for the sake of your YouTube views is unacceptable,” Gambhir said during a press interaction.
He emphasised that Rana earned his place through consistent performances in domestic and IPL cricket, particularly under high-pressure situations. Gambhir added that young players deserve encouragement, not baseless allegations that could hurt their confidence.
Srikkanth’s claim sparks backlash
Srikkanth’s comments had triggered controversy on social media, where several fans accused him of undermining a player’s reputation. In his video, Srikkanth claimed that Rana’s selection reflected favouritism within the team, saying he was “Gambhir’s yes-man.”
Gambhir, however, dismissed the claims as “irresponsible content-making.” He said, “People should refrain from targeting players for personal gains or for sensationalism. The job of a coach is to create opportunities, not controversies.”
Support for Gambhir’s stance
Several former players and fans backed Gambhir’s defence, agreeing that constructive criticism should not cross into personal territory. Cricket analysts pointed out that Rana had shown promise as a fast bowler in the IPL and domestic circuits, and his selection was not out of place.
The Indian head coach also urged the cricketing fraternity to focus on nurturing emerging talents instead of dragging them into unnecessary disputes.
Conclusion
The spat between Gambhir and Srikkanth highlights the growing tension between current management and former cricketers who express their opinions on digital platforms. As Rana continues his journey in international cricket, the episode underscores the need for balanced commentary that respects both transparency and player morale.