As Team India gears up for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former captain Sourav Ganguly has stepped forward to quell the growing criticism surrounding head coach Gautam Gambhir's methods and media demeanour. Facing questions about his tenure after two disappointing series losses to Sri Lanka in ODIs and New Zealand in Tests, Gambhir's forthright style during press conferences has also become a hot topic among past players. However, Ganguly insists that Gambhir should not suppress his natural tendencies and advises critics to accept him as he is.
Ganguly defended Gambhir by highlighting that his straightforward approach is simply part of his personality. He compared Gambhir's style to that of former Australian cricket greats like Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, and Steve Waugh, who were known for their similar competitive natures.
"All I will say is let him be. I saw some criticism of what he said in the press conference. It is the way he is. Let him be. When he won the IPL, he was the same. You were going gaga over him. Just because he has lost three Test matches and a one-day series against Sri Lanka, the straight talk has not been looked at nicely. But that is the way he is," said Ganguly.
Questioning the need for Gambhir to change, Ganguly pointed out that Australian players have long been tough competitors, with aggressive styles of play embodied by legends like Waugh, Ponting, and Hayden. He saw no issue with Gambhir's remarks, emphasising that being a fighter and a competitor is part of who he is. Ganguly urged people to give Gambhir more time before passing judgment, noting that it's only been a few months into his coaching tenure.
Gambhir's recent comments about Ricky Ponting during a press conference have also stirred debate. Yet, Ganguly believes that Gambhir should be allowed to express himself freely, as this authenticity defines his character.