Former player accuses Gautam Gambhir of taking undue credit in team’s success, gets schooled by two current cricketers

Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana has openly voiced his support for the team’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, following controversial remarks made by Manoj Tiwary. Rana emphasized that no one should criticize Gambhir out of personal insecurities, highlighting that Gambhir has always prioritized others over himself.

Earlier today (January 9), comments from former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Manoj Tiwary, made during an interview with News18 Bangla, gained traction on social media. Tiwary alleged that Gambhir was hypocritical, accusing him of not practicing what he preached. He also pointed out that Gambhir received most of the credit for KKR’s IPL victories in 2012 and 2014, despite significant contributions from other players. Although Harshit Rana refrained from naming Tiwary directly in his Instagram story, he made his stance clear in defense of Gambhir.

“Criticizing someone due to personal insecurities is never a good thing. Gauti bhaiya is someone who prioritizes others over himself. He supports players when they’re struggling and brings them into the spotlight when things go well. He’s demonstrated this time and again, showcasing his ability to turn games in favor of the team.”

INSTAGRAM STORY OF HARSHIT RANA…!!!!

– Gambhir is the hero for KKR & the players. pic.twitter.com/MKmvBRwp3d

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 9, 2025

Former KKR captain Nitish Rana also stood firmly in support of Gambhir. In a post on X, Nitish stated that any criticism should be rooted in facts rather than being fueled by personal insecurities. Gambhir has faced widespread criticism, particularly following India’s 1-3 defeat in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Manoj Tiwari Responds After Backlash

Tiwary tweeted that he was open to answering any fan questions about his latest interview.

“Before tagging me and sharing your opinions about what I said regarding Gautam Gambhir or the current situation with Team India, take the time to watch this interview, get it translated, and then come back for a discussion. I’m open to addressing all your questions.”

Before taggin me and sharing your opinions on what I said about Gautam Gambhir and what’s happening with the team India. Go through this interview and get it translated and then come back and have a debate with me. I’m ready to answer all the queries. https://t.co/2UkY5SvQQk

— MANOJ TIWARY (@tiwarymanoj) January 9, 2025

As Tiwary’s comments went viral, they sparked reactions from both active cricketers, like Harshit Rana and Nitish Rana, and numerous fans, who addressed Tiwary either directly or indirectly.

Responding to the backlash, Tiwary urged fans to watch his full interview for context.The former Indian batter also shared a link to the interview and encouraged viewers unfamiliar with the language to have the comments translated to understand his perspective fully.

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