Gautam Gambhir Slams Critics: Says He “Won’t Turn NRI to Avoid Taxes”, Takes Dig at Ex-India
Gautam Gambhir Slams Critics: “Won’t Turn NRI to Avoid Taxes”, Takes Dig at Ex-India Captains
Former Indian cricketer and current national team head coach Gautam Gambhir has launched a bold counterattack against his critics. Speaking out with unfiltered honesty, he said, “I won’t turn NRI to avoid taxes,” which many interpreted as a veiled dig at certain ex-India captains now living abroad.
Gambhir Pushes Back Against Public Criticism
In recent months, several former players and commentators have questioned Gambhir’s leadership style and his coaching decisions. India’s subpar performances in both the red-ball and white-ball formats have added fuel to the fire, intensifying pressure on both Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma.
Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary voiced his discontent, labeling Gambhir a “hypocrite” and accusing him of credit-hoarding during his stint as mentor with Kolkata Knight Riders. Tiwary claimed that Gambhir downplayed the efforts of other team members and built a narrative that suited his public image.
Tiwary’s critique didn’t stop at Gambhir’s IPL role. He openly questioned Gambhir’s current strategies with the national side, especially after the team’s lackluster showing in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
“Won’t Turn NRI to Save Tax”: A Targeted Comment?
Gambhir’s remark about not becoming an NRI to save taxes has sparked wide speculation. He didn’t name anyone, but cricket analysts and fans quickly linked his words to a few former captains who now live abroad—ostensibly for lifestyle or financial reasons.
His choice of words seemed deliberate. Gambhir, who has always projected a nationalist image, used this statement to position himself as grounded and committed to India—not just as a coach but also as a taxpayer.
While the media buzzed about the identity of his targets, Gambhir refused to elaborate. However, the message resonated strongly with fans who often feel disconnected from celebrities who settle abroad.
BCCI Sides With Gambhir
Despite the controversy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stood by Gambhir. The board even endorsed his recent 10-point plan to curb the “star culture” that has crept into the team.
The directive includes:
- Mandatory participation in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy.
- Strict penalties, including salary cuts, for players who skip domestic commitments.
- A ban on players traveling with families on official tours unless previously approved.
- Limits on personal PR teams and social media endorsements while on national duty.
According to reports, the BCCI believes this approach will reintroduce discipline, focus, and team-first values in Indian cricket.
Manoj Tiwary vs. Gautam Gambhir: A Personal Clash?
Manoj Tiwary, who played under Gambhir during their Kolkata Knight Riders days, expressed disappointment in his former teammate. In a recent interview, Tiwary alleged that Gambhir often felt insecure when others in the team received attention from the media or fans.
“I gave it my all, yet felt pushed out of the spotlight,” Tiwary said. “He didn’t like anyone else getting attention.”
Gambhir has yet to respond directly to these accusations, but his recent interviews suggest that he views the criticism as part of a broader campaign to discredit his coaching credentials.
Public Opinion Divided
Fans remain divided. Some believe Gambhir’s strict approach is exactly what Indian cricket needs—especially after years of placing stardom over performance. Others feel he is focusing too much on personal discipline and not enough on strategy, team morale, or player development.
Cricket expert Harsha Bhogle stated, “You can’t coach modern cricketers the way you coached in 2010. You need empathy and strategy, not just rules and restrictions.”
Others, including former selector Kris Srikkanth, praised Gambhir’s no-nonsense style, saying, “We’ve pampered players for too long. It’s time to remind them of the badge on their chest.”
Is This a New Era or a Misstep?
Whether Gambhir’s firm stance will transform Indian cricket or alienate key players remains uncertain. His leadership style differs sharply from his predecessors—less diplomatic, more direct, and very unapologetic.
If his methods bear fruit in upcoming series, critics may need to reevaluate their judgments. But if the results falter, Gambhir could face even harsher scrutiny, especially with ex-players continuing to question his intent and credentials.
As the team heads into a crucial international calendar, eyes will remain fixed on whether Gambhir can back his words with wins.
Final Thoughts
Gautam Gambhir has never been one to shy away from confrontation. As a player, he carried a fierce attitude. Now, as a coach, he continues to operate with the same intensity.
His recent statements highlight a deeper issue in Indian cricket—one that revolves around loyalty, personal branding, and the struggle between tradition and modernity. Whether one agrees with his views or not, Gambhir has succeeded in one thing: he’s made everyone talk about accountability.
