‘If you’re saying such things…’ – Former India opener’s bold statement on Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir brawl

Former Indian opener, Virender Sehwag criticized Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir for their actions during the Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL 2023 match. After the game, players from both teams attempted to settle an argument between Kohli and Gambhir that was getting out of hand.

According to Sehwag, both Kohli and Gambhir have been national idols, therefore their involvement in this matter not only makes for terrible television but also sets a bad example for millions of young people.

“I switched off the TV once the match got over. I had no idea about what happened after the match. The next day when I woke up, I saw a lot of chaos on social media. What happened wasn’t right. The loser should quietly accept defeat and walk away and the winning team should celebrate. Why did they need to say anything to each other,” Sehwag was quoted as saying on Cricbuzz.

It’s better to do whatever you want to inside the controlled environment of the dressing room: Virender Sehwag

“I always say one thing, that these guys are icons of the country. If they do or say anything, millions of kids follow them and probably think ‘If my icon has done this, I would too’. So if they keep these things in mind, they would limit such incidents,” the 44-year-old asserted.

Former Delhi Capitals cricketer believes that a simple ban by the Indian Cricket Board can go a long way in reducing such tragic events. He also added that the fact that even his own children can understand what is being said only makes the issue worse.

“If the Indian Cricket Board decides to ban anyone, then maybe such incidents will happen rarely or not take place at all. Such incidents have happened several times in the past so it’s better to do whatever you want to inside the controlled environment of the dressing room. When you’re on the ground, these things don’t look nice,” Sehwag stated.

“My own kids can lip-read and they very well understand Ben Stokes. So that is when I feel bad. If you’re saying such things, if my kids can read it, others can too, and tomorrow they will think that if they (Kohli and Gambhir) can say it, so can I,” the Delhi-born cricketer opined.