Gurbaz Defends Gambhir, Calls Him ‘Best Coach’ Amid Growing Backlash

Amid rising criticism of Gautam Gambhir’s coaching methods following India’s recent Test defeats, Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has come out strongly in the former India opener’s support, calling him the “best coach” he has worked with and dismissing the backlash as senseless.

Gambhir has been under intense scrutiny after India were handed a rare 0-2 home Test series loss to South Africa, coming on the heels of a historic 0-3 home defeat to New Zealand last year. The consecutive setbacks ended India’s decade-long stronghold on home conditions, with five losses in their last seven Tests.

Gurbaz, who played a key role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2024 title win under Gambhir’s mentorship, said the criticism does not align with his own experience. “For me, Gautam sir is the best coach and a great human being,” he said, adding that the outrage surrounding Gambhir “makes no sense.”

The young Afghan batter credited Gambhir for elevating his game during the IPL and praised his clarity, discipline, and man-management. As debates continue around India’s Test slump and Gambhir’s role, Gurbaz’s endorsement offers a contrasting viewpoint from one of the players who has flourished under his guidance.