IND vs AUS: 'Let Him Say Whatever He Likes...' - Sourav Ganguly on Gautam Gambhir Ahead of BGT Challenge

IND vs AUS: Ahead of the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series between India and Australia, Sourav Ganguly has urged critics to give head coach Gautam Gambhir the space to lead the team his way.

The former India captain and BCCI president defended Gambhir's outspoken nature, emphasising that such traits are often celebrated during success but scrutinised during tough times.

Sourav Ganguly's comments came after Gambhir faced criticism for his remarks on Australian legend Ricky Ponting's concerns over Virat Kohli's recent Test performances. Ponting had noted that Kohli had scored only two Test centuries since 2020 but backed the star batter to succeed in Australian conditions. Gambhir, in response, remarked that Ponting should focus on Australia's issues instead of Kohli. The exchange sparked debate, with Ponting later calling Gambhir a "prickly character."

"Let him be," Ganguly stated in an interview. "I saw some criticism on what he said in the press conference. That's just how he is. When he won the IPL, everyone praised him for being straightforward. Now, because we've lost a few matches, people don't like it. But Gambhir hasn't changed. Give him a chance to prove himself as head coach-it's only been two months."

India's recent struggles, including a Test series loss to New Zealand and an ODI series defeat to Sri Lanka, have fueled skepticism around Gambhir's leadership. Ganguly, however, argued that boldness and candour are part of Gambhir's personality and could be an asset in a competitive series against Australia.

"Let him say whatever he likes-it helps him focus. Ultimately, the game is won on the field, and that's what matters," Ganguly added. "The Australian series has always been intense, and his approach will only add to the competitiveness. Let's give him the support he needs."

The much-anticipated BGT kicks off on November 22 with the first Test in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. With India needing a 4-0 sweep to secure their spot in the World Test Championship final, the pressure is immense.