Gautam Gambhir clears the air on supposed tiff with Virat Kohli after his 50th century: 'No bad blood here'

Contrary to popular belief, Gambhir actually has a great deal of respect for Kohli, as revealed in a little-known story shared by Piyush Chawla, the veteran India spinner. He takes Kohli's cricket very seriously, as seen during the 2023 World Cup when Kohli had an outstanding tournament, scoring over 700 runs, including three centuries. Despite their past disagreements, Gambhir, who was a part of the broadcasting team, was one of the keenest observers of Kohli's record-breaking performance.

"I and Gauti bhai were doing a show. A question was asked 'When Virat completed his 50th century, which bowled did he take the single off? I couldn't answer it, but Gambhir did it. And he's like 'Now don't say there's any tiff. Gauti bhai is all class. He is one of the best," Chawla said on Shubhankar Mishra's YouTube channel.

That this story has been verified by no one but Chawla adds to its authenticity. He has known Gambhir for years. The two have won India World Cups together, represented India A and were teammates at Kolkata Knight Riders, winning two titles as well – in 2012 and 2014. Highlighting some spectacular traits about Gambhir, Chawla's admiration of the man is a walking testament as to how looks can be deceiving. Chawla didn't say anything that you haven't heard before but the similarities is what makes Gambhir a gem of a human being and the type of coach that helps a player flourish.

"You know what the best thing about Gauti bhai is? He will motivate you, give you free hand and the way he backs you. If he sees that talent in you, he will back you even if you don't do anything in all 14 games. If you can do it, he will back you which is a brilliant thing for any player," Chawla added.

"I played under him for 4-5 years – in fact we played India and India A together – the way he appears on the ground, aggressive and all, off it he is equally polite. And the amount of fun I have interacting with him it just amazing. Gauti bhai, one of the best humans I have come across."