'Cringe-worthy arrogance...': South African media slams India coach Gautam Gambhir
What's the story
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has been criticized by South African media for his reaction to accusations of favoritism in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy.
India's tournament matches are being played in Dubai, owing to geopolitical reasons that restrict India from visiting Pakistan.
This has prompted some critics to claim that India have had the upper hand with lesser travel and acclimatization opportunities.
Whil Gambhir defended the same in his latest presser, South African media was quick to respond.
Strong response
Gambhir defends India's position amid scheduling criticism
In a press conference, Gambhir came to India's defense, calling the critics "perpetual cribbers."
He rubbished allegations of undue advantage, saying the team hasn't practiced in Dubai and is training at the ICC Academy.
"What undue advantage? We haven't practiced here even for a day. We're practicing at the ICC Academy and the conditions there and here are 180 degrees different," he said.
Media backlash
South African media labels Gambhir's stance as 'arrogance'
A day later, South African publication iol.co.za slammed Gambhir's response, calling it "cringeworthy arrogance."
The article noted that the ICC Academy is just a few hundred meters away from the Dubai International Stadium.
It also noted that staying in one place and forcing other teams to to travel around and face different conditions is an advantage.
Criticism
Gambhir criticized for attacking Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton
Gambhir's comments on former England captains Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton were also criticized. The duo had suggested that India have an advantage in Dubai.
To their criticism, Gambhir had said, "They've got to grow up."
The South African media outlet called this remark "cringeworthy arrogance," adding to the backlash against him.
Prediction
South African media predicts hollow victory for India
As India gear up for the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai, South African media predicted a "hollow victory" for the team.
The Business Day article titled "Shocking India favoritism," accused the ICC of favoring India in the ongoing tournament by letting the side play their matches in Dubai.
It said even if Gambhir celebrates an ICC trophy win, he will know there will be a "hollowness to it" for how it was achieved.