India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has drawn criticism from fans on social media due to a peculiar incident just before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. Ahead of the crucial match against New Zealand, Gambhir shared a promotional post for a fantasy cricket platform, inviting fans to predict the game’s outcome. This action ignited a wave of comments from fans who questioned a potential ‘conflict of interest,’ given that the head coach of the Indian national team was endorsing a fantasy sports app while actively participating in a major tournament final.
Gambhir’s post featured the question: ‘Can the RO-KO duo lead India to another Champions ODI trophy? Trade on Real11. Answer more Yes/No questions like this and win big prizes!’
Numerous fans expressed their concerns and reactions online.
Despite the social media stir, Gambhir’s impactful decision-making has been crucial to India’s journey to the Champions Trophy final. His choice to include five spinners in the squad for the Dubai tournament, initially met with skepticism, has proven to be a successful strategy for the Indian team.
The inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a significant turning point for India. Supported by Gambhir despite his limited experience in ODIs, this spinner from Kolkata Knight Riders is anticipated to play a vital role for India in the final match.
