Gautam Gambhir hits back at Ranatunga over fixing allegations
Top scorer for the Indian team in the 2011 World Cup finals, Gautam Gambhir, said that former Sri Lanka captain's demand for probe into the match was "outrageous." He said, "I am surprised by Arjuna Ranatunga's allegations. These are serious comments by a very respectable voice in international cricket. I think to clear the air, he should back his claims with proofs."
Ranatunga seeks probe into SL's loss in 2011 WC final
Former Sri Lanka captains Kumar Sangakkara and Arjuna Ranatunga were engaged in a war of words when the latter asked for a probe into Sri Lanka's loss in the 2011 Cricket World Cup finals against India. Ranatunga believes that Sri Lankan team, led by Sangakkara, performed 'suspiciously' below average in the finals. He also said that he will soon prove these allegations.
What did Ranatunga say?
In a video posted on Facebook, the 1996 World Cup winning captain said that he was shocked by Sri Lanka's defeat in the finals at the Wankhede Stadium. He said that 4 changes made in the Playing XI were also suspicious. He added, "I cannot reveal everything now, but one day I will. There must be an inquiry."
Players cannot hide dirt on them: Ranatunga
The 53-year old went on to say that the players will not be able to hide 'dirt' on them if they have committed something wrong.
What happened in the World Cup finals?
Sri Lanka had made four changes in the team for the finals and had posted 274 runs on board while batting first. They also made a good start with the ball, sending back Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar early. However, a fine innings by Gautam Gambhir and a match winning performance by former Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni took away the match from them.
Ashish Nehra joins Gambhir; rubbishes Ranatunga's fixing allegations
Ashish Nehra, said, "I don't wish to dignify Ranatunga's comments by airing my views on the issue. If I question Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup victory, is it in good taste? So let's not get into it. But yes, it is disappointing.."
