IND vs PAK: Gautam Gambhir Reacts To Viral Social Media Post Claiming He Showed Middle Finger To Fans Chanting 'Kohli'

In a video circulating on social media, Gambhir can be seen making the gesture during the intense tournament opener between India and Pakistan, which was ultimately abandoned due to rain.

Former India cricketer and cricket commentator and politician Gautam Gambhir (FILE PHOTO)

Source : PTI

Pallekele: Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian opener, recently addressed an incident during the Asia Cup match against Pakistan where he was captured making an obscene gesture towards the crowd. He clarified that this response was provoked by what he perceived as "anti-India slogans" from a section of the spectators.

In a video circulating on social media, Gambhir can be seen making the controversial gesture during the intense tournament opener between India and Pakistan, which was ultimately abandoned due to persistent rain.

Gambhir, now a part of the commentary team for the continental tournament, took the opportunity to explain his actions. He emphasized that when people attend sporting events, they should refrain from engaging in political sloganeering. He stated that if the crowd is shouting anti-India slogans and slogans related to Kashmir, it is unreasonable to expect him to remain silent in response. Gambhir also highlighted that social media often presents an incomplete and biased picture of events.

"When you come to watch sport don't indulge in political sloganeering. If you are shouting anti-India slogans and Kashmir slogans you can't expect me to keep quiet. Social media never gives you full picture," Gambhir told the media as quoted in a PTI report.

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Reports in certain sections of the media suggested that chants of "Kohli, Kohli" were heard as Gambhir was returning to the broadcasting area from the ground during a rain delay. However, Gambhir clarified that his reaction had nothing to do with these chants.

He stressed that there was no truth to the interpretations presented on social media. According to him, the incident was triggered by the anti-India slogans and slogans about Kashmir that were being chanted. In such a situation, he believed it was natural for there to be some form of reaction, whether it be through words or laughter.

In providing this context, Gautam Gambhir aimed to clarify the reasons behind his actions during the match, shedding light on the specific circumstances that led to his response.

(With Inputs From PTI)