For Gautam Gambhir, team sport is about recognising every contribution — not just the ones that make headlines. The Indian head coach believes that for too long, Indian cricket has celebrated only the standout performances while overlooking the smaller, decisive moments that shape victories.
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Reflecting on India’s win over the West Indies, Gambhir said Shivam Dube’s two boundaries in the penultimate over were just as crucial as Sanju Samson’s match-winning 97.
“I’m glad you’re talking about every contribution because for many years we’ve only spoken about certain contributions. This is a team sport and it will always remain a team sport,” Gambhir said.
“For me, Shivam’s two boundaries are as important as Sanju’s 97. If he hadn’t hit those two boundaries, you wouldn’t even be talking about that 97. Big contributions make headlines, but the smaller ones that help you cross the line are equally important.”
Gambhir made it clear that under his tenure, there will be no hierarchy of praise.
“That’s going to be the philosophy going forward till I am there,” he asserted.
In an era where T20 cricket is increasingly driven by analytics, Gambhir revealed that he prefers instinct over numbers.
“I don’t believe in data, honestly. I’ve never seen the data. I don’t even know what data is all about. I absolutely do not believe in it because I feel it’s more about instinct,” he said — a surprising remark given the Indian team’s reliance on data analyst Hari Prasad.
“T20 cricket is about instinct and backing your gut. Whatever knowledge I have about the game and the format, I try to pass it on to the captain and help him as much as I can. Ultimately, it’s the captain who takes the final call.”
Calling data “overrated”, Gambhir said India’s strength lies in the versatility of its players.
“We are fortunate to have world-class players. Not many teams have the luxury we have. Someone like Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep or Varun can be used in any phase of the game.
“And with the bat, when you have power, you’re never out of a chase. You’re never out of the game.”
Looking ahead to the semifinal against England, Gambhir acknowledged the challenge posed by Harry Brook’s side and the conditions at the Wankhede Stadium.
“They are a world-class team with quality players and we all know Wankhede is a tough venue,” he said.
“Hopefully, we can turn up and make the most of another opportunity to do something special for the team and the country. It’s important that we play our best game.”
(By PTI Inputs)
