Aakash Chopra shares intriguing anecdote about Gautam Gambhir's fiery temperament
Gautam Gambhir, the current head coach of Team India, is renowned for his passionate and assertive demeanor. This trait has been a hallmark of his cricketing career and continues to influence his coaching style. His approach marks a significant shift from the calm and diplomatic style of his predecessor, Rahul Dravid. In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra shared an interesting story about Gambhir's fiery nature from their early cricketing days in Delhi.
Chopra recalls Gambhir's confrontation with truck driver
Chopra, who has shared the dressing room with Gambhir for Delhi, recounted an incident that perfectly encapsulates Gambhir's fiery nature. He described how Gambhir once got into a heated argument with a truck driver in the middle of the road. "Gautam once fought with a truck driver in Delhi. He got out of his car and climbed the truck to grab the collar of the driver because he made a wrong turn and was abusing," Chopra said during the podcast.
Gambhir's on-field confrontations and reconciliation with Kohli
Gambhir's on-field confrontations are well-documented, particularly his clashes with Virat Kohli during his tenure as a player for Kolkata Knight Riders and later as the coach of Lucknow Super Giants. Despite their heated past, both players who share a deep-rooted connection from their early days playing together for Delhi, made headlines when they reconciled during the 2024 IPL season. This reconciliation was warmly received by fans, especially as Gambhir and Kohli found themselves working together in the Indian dressing room.
Gambhir's coaching journey and upcoming challenges
Gambhir's initial series as head coach saw mixed results with India defeating Sri Lanka 3-0 in T20Is but losing 0-2 in ODIs. The focus now shifts to the home season, which commences on September 19. India will face Bangladesh in the first of two Tests in Chennai, marking their return to red-ball cricket for the first time since March earlier this year. The second Test will be held in Kanpur from September 27 onward.
