Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in on the intense verbal exchange between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir during the IPL 2023 clash between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Lucknow. Shastri believes that the two cricketing stalwarts will adopt a different demeanor when they meet again, now conscious of the ever-watchful cameras.
The match between LSG and RCB became an arena of raw emotions that fans had been longing for in the league. Tempers flared as Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir, two giants of Indian cricket, found themselves embroiled in a heated confrontation.
While Royal Challengers Bangalore emerged victorious in the game, the focus quickly shifted from the season’s proceedings to the intense altercation between Virat Kohli and Naveen Ul Haq. Gautam Gambhir later joined the fray, adding fuel to the already fiery exchange.
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The saga unfolded when Virat and Naveen exchanged words during the 17th over of the match. The verbal sparring continued even during the post-match handshakes, escalating tensions further. As Virat Kohli confronted Naveen Ul Haq, Gautam Gambhir intervened, leading to a heated exchange of words between the former teammates before being separated by their respective teammates.
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Ravi Shastri, while acknowledging the confrontation, emphasized its positive aspects. He expressed the belief that both players would display greater patience and make the right choices for the benefit of the watching audience. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Shastri stated:
“A little bit of confrontation on the field is necessary. The match referee is there to draw the line. If you get fined once or twice, it serves as a reminder. Many people questioned why the fight was being shown on live telecast during the IPL. Fair point. But the world saw it. Now, here’s the positive side.”
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Shastri explained that the incident would prompt a change in behavior from both players, as they would be acutely aware of the constant presence of cameras. They would strive to uphold the spirit of the game, considering the massive audience comprising kids, parents, and friends who are closely watching.
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“By seeing that, both players will behave differently the next time. Because they will know there is a camera on them all the time. Then they will do the right thing for the massive audience that is watching. Kids, parents, friends. You then know what is the line.”, Shastri further commented.
Following the incident, both Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir were fined 100% of their match fees. Shastri believes that the harsh penalty will serve as a learning experience for the players, cautioning that further fines or even suspensions await those who fail to internalize the lessons.
“Upon reviewing the footage, questions arise: ‘Did I use abusive language? Was my body language inappropriate? Did my actions align with the spirit of the game? Did I come across as a bad loser?’ These considerations come to the forefront. Learning from these moments is crucial. Failure to learn may lead to another fine or suspension.”, Shastri concluded.
