Gautam Gambhir Clarifies Controversial Gesture Amidst Fan Chants in Asia Cup 2023

In a heated moment during an Asia Cup 2023 match between India and Nepal, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir found himself embroiled in a controversy. A video circulating on social media captured an incident where Gambhir appeared to make a gesture towards fans Gautam Gambhir Clarifies Controversial Gesture Amidst Fan Chants in Asia Cup 2023 who were enthusiastically chanting “Kohli… Kohli.”

The Asia Cup 2023 has been a platform for intense competition and fervent fan support, with spectators passionately rallying behind their favourite players. However, Gambhir’s involvement in this incident, especially given his role as part of the Asia Cup 2023 commentary panel for Star Sports, has stirred discussions regarding sportsmanship and the dynamics of player-fan interactions.

The Controversial Video

In the video, the backdrop is a charged atmosphere, with fans vociferously chanting “Kohli… Kohli” in support of former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli. Amidst the fervour, Gambhir, who was present at the venue in some capacity, is seen reacting by seemingly showing a middle finger to the crowd. 

The gesture swiftly gained traction on various social media platforms, prompting fans and cricket enthusiasts to share their opinions and reactions. Many were taken aback by the unexpected response from Gambhir, a renowned figure in Indian cricket.

Gambhir’s Clarification

In response to the controversy, Gautam Gambhir addressed the incident on Monday, providing his perspective on what transpired during that intense moment. He clarified that his reaction was triggered by anti-India slogans voiced by some Pakistani fans in the crowd. 

Gambhir stated, “What is shown on social media has no truth in it because people show whatever they want to show. The truth about the video that went viral is that if you raise anti-India slogans and speak about Kashmir, then the person before you will obviously react and not smile and leave. There were 2-3 Pakistanis there who were speaking anti-India things and things on Kashmir. So, it was my natural reaction. I can’t hear anything against my country. So, that was my reaction.”

He also took to Twitter to express his sentiments, saying, “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes. Not everything is as it seems. Any Indian would react how I did to the kind of slogans used against our nation. I love our players & I love my country.” 

Gambhir’s explanation sheds light on the context of the incident, emphasizing that his reaction was a response to what he perceived as derogatory remarks about India and Kashmir.

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