Cricket enthusiasts may recall a few combinations of players while discussing individual players, but the legendary rivalry between Shahid Afridi and Gautam Gambhir would undoubtedly come up frequently.
The intense rivalry between the Indian and Pakistani teams is arguably one of cricket’s most famous and historic rivalries. Naturally, why not? The close bond between the two first came to light when they got into a furious argument in Kanpur during the third One-Day International (ODI) of their five-match series during Pakistan’s tour to India.
However, there is only the apparent conflict between two players who are playing with ardent hearts and inflated egos. However, the dynamic changes when the player is not on the pitch. This was clear from Afridi’s response when Gambhir was named Team India’s new head coach, taking over for the renowned Rahul Dravid.
It would be a big chance for Gambhir, said Afridi, who is presently participating in the World Championship of Legends 2024 in the UK, and it was unclear how the former southpaw would take use of it. He added that he had been following Gambhir’s remarks and interviews for a while and valued his directness in handling situations.
It’s a significant chance, in my opinion, and we must watch how he takes advantage of it. I’ve watched his interviews, and he’s quite direct and talks favourably,” The Indian Express cited Afridi as saying.
Notably, when India plays Sri Lanka in the final week of July and ends on August 7, 2024, Gambhir’s first responsibility will be managing the three Twenty20 Internationals and an equivalent number of One-Day Internationals.
Currently leading the youthful Indian team in the five-match Twenty20 International series against Zimbabwe is VVS Laxman.
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