Romesh Powar's position as coachwas not made permanent after the controversy
The recently retired Gautam Gambhir opened up on the controversy regarding Indian women's cricket that included the likes of Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur and former coach Romesh Powar.
Raj and Powar involved themselves in blame games after the former was dropped from the side for the crucial semi-final clash against England in the Women's World T20 in West Indies. India were humbled in the match and Mithali's axe was not taken lightly by fans and media alike.
The senior most cricketer in the India women's team then wrote an email to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) top brass expressing her disappointment and blamed Powar for ignoring her in the tour on numerous occasions. Powar then came out and defended himself by saying that Mithali on occasions was selfish and put her interests ahead of the team's.
The issue was addressed and following that, Powar's interim position as coach was not made full-time. Raj and T20I captain Harmanpreet also reportedly met to sort out the issue.
And, talking about the controversial chapter in women's cricket concerning the likes of Raj, Harmanpreet and ex-coach Powar, Gambhir said that it is unfortunate to see such dissension in a team which is taking cricket forward to great heights.
"It is something unfortunate. These controversies shouldn't happen. I think it has more to do with ego. Whatever BCCI would decide, it will be best in the interest of the team. Ultimately, it is not about what an individual wants. Whatever is better for the team that should happen," Gambhir said.
Gambhir also opened up on his life after retirement and said that he is yet to decide on a coaching stint or mentorship.
"Haven't decided about it, but then I like being part of an action. It is something that has always excited me for all my life. Let's see, I am going to evaluate whether to get into or mentorship."
When asked whether he will follow the footsteps of Australian bowler Mitchell Johnson who plans to train himself to become a coach, Gambhir said: "I have been a senior player for Delhi for a very long time and mentored those young kids as well. Coaching is not rocket science. I think it is about sharing your experience and being as honest as you can. It is just your passion whether you like it or you don't. And If you like it you will enjoy and help someone become better and try to achieve his dream. So that is something that excites me to become."
Meanwhile, reacting on the second-Test of the ongoing four-match series between India and Australia, Gambhir said India will have lots of confidence because it is already a 1-0 advantage.
On the Perth pitch, former left-hander batsman said, "Wicket is going to suit fast bowlers so whoever bowls well and put runs will have the advantage in the Perth Test."
Gambhir announced his retirement from all formats of cricket earlier on December 4, calling it the most difficult decision taken with the heaviest heart. In his last outing for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy against Andhra Pradesh, the former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain went on to score 112 off 185 balls with the help of ten boundaries at Feroz Shah Kotla.
(With inputs from ANI)
