Rahane's Advice to Gambhir: Focus on the Game

Ajinkya Rahane, the former Test captain of India, has recently shared his thoughts about head coach Gautam Gambhir's presence on social media. He suggested that Gambhir should consider staying away from platforms like 'X' until the end of the 2026 T20 World Cup. This advice comes in light of Gambhir's recent interactions with Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, where he faced some sarcastic criticism regarding his coaching authority.

During a conversation on Cricbuzz, Rahane stated, "My only response to this is, GG should stay away from social media." He emphasized the importance of focusing on the responsibilities of coaching, especially with such a significant tournament approaching. Rahane's experience as a player led him to realize that social media can often create unnecessary distractions, which might detract from the team's performance.

Gambhir's engagement in discussions on social media has raised eyebrows, particularly after Tharoor posted a picture with him, highlighting their conversation in Nagpur. Tharoor acknowledged Gambhir's challenging role, stating that he is constantly being second-guessed but remains calm and focused. In response, Gambhir expressed amusement over the criticism about his supposed "unlimited authority," indicating that he is aware of the scrutiny he faces.

There have been rumors regarding tensions between Gambhir and senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, especially after their retirement from Test cricket. The history of clashes between Gambhir and Kohli during the Indian Premier League (IPL) has fueled these speculations. However, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has dismissed these claims, assuring that regular communication takes place among the team, including discussions about ODI formats and upcoming matches.

Kotak mentioned, "They definitely share the experience and I always see them talking," underscoring the importance of collaboration and teamwork. He also highlighted that while social media can be a source of distraction, it is vital for players and coaches to maintain their focus on their game and upcoming challenges.

In conclusion, Rahane's advice to Gambhir serves as a reminder of the need for concentration and focus in the competitive world of cricket, particularly during crucial tournaments like the T20 World Cup.