Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir, two of India’s most prominent cricketers, have shared a tumultuous relationship both on and off the field. Their rivalry, which has often been played out in front of millions of fans, is marked by several fiery confrontations, especially during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Over the years, their verbal spats have stirred up considerable media attention and fan interest, with many questioning whether the two truly harbored ill feelings toward each other.
However, recently, the duo put an end to all rumors regarding their differences when they sat down for a candid conversation ahead of India’s Test series against Bangladesh. The interaction, posted by the BCCI, was cordial and insightful, allowing fans to see the professional camaraderie that still exists between them despite past confrontations. This conversation was viewed as a significant moment, dispelling long-standing speculations about any lingering tension. It highlighted that, while their personalities may have clashed in the heat of competition, both players respect each other’s contributions to Indian cricket.
But while the air may be clear now, there have been a few instances over the years when Kohli and Gambhir were involved in high-profile clashes that sent social media and fans into a frenzy. Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable moments when the two engaged in a war of words:
The heated exchange in IPL 2013
One of the most infamous confrontations between Kohli and Gambhir occurred during the IPL 2013 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Gambhir, then captain of KKR, and Kohli, leading RCB, were involved in a heated exchange on the field after Kohli was dismissed. Words were exchanged, and both players had to be separated by their teammates to avoid further escalation. This altercation was widely covered, with both players fined for their conduct.
Here is the video:
— IPL (@WatchIPLvideos) September 18, 2024
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Argument during RCB vs LSG clash at IPL 2023
A fresh verbal spat erupted during the IPL 2023 match between RCB and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where Gambhir was the mentor of LSG. The incident took place during the post-match handshake. After RCB’s win, a heated argument broke out between Kohli and Gambhir, escalating from an earlier confrontation between Kohli and LSG’s player Naveen-ul-Haq. The duo had an intense face-off, and videos of them being restrained by their teammates and coaching staff went viral.
Here is the video:
Full fight between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir #GautamGambhir #ViratKohli𓃵 #ViratKohli #ViralVideos #viral2024 pic.twitter.com/0qt0svVevP
— Shortfineleg (@freehitnoball) September 18, 2024
Verbal digs in interviews and social media
Gambhir has occasionally taken indirect digs at Kohli in interviews, especially regarding captaincy, fitness culture, and his aggressive style of leadership. While not direct confrontations, these comments have often led to speculation about tension between the two. Gambhir has also been vocal about certain cricketing decisions related to Kohli during his stint as a cricket commentator and analyst.
While Kohli and Gambhir’s relationship has seen its fair share of heated moments and public confrontations, their recent interaction ahead of the Bangladesh series shows that time and maturity have allowed both to move past their differences. What once seemed like an intense rivalry driven by fierce competitiveness on the field now appears to be water under the bridge.
Also READ: Top 5 run-scorers in India vs Bangladesh Test matches – September 2024
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