Fiery pep talk from Gautam Gambhir before Day 4; Kumble urges Team India to show character against South Africa

Before play began on Day 4 of the second Test match against South Africa at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, India head coach Gautam Gambhir gave the cricket players a motivational pep talk, raising his finger several times in an emotional conversation. With a 1-0 lead in the series, South Africa is clear favorites to win the second Test and take a 2-0 series victory. Even a tie would be a miraculous outcome for Team India, given how far behind they currently are.

During the team meeting ahead of Tuesday’s game, Gambhir took charge, urging his squad to show resilience. Broadcasters aired footage from a press conference last year in which Gambhir emphasized that the Indian team should be ready to score 400 runs in a single day and, if necessary, bat for two days to salvage a Test match. His animated pep talk set the tone for the team.

Legendary Indian cricketer and broadcaster Anil Kumble commented on Gambhir’s approach, stating that India needed to demonstrate character on the field, as they would not get another opportunity against the reigning World Test Champions.

“You just have to back up those words. You are up against the best side in world cricket today who have won the trophy (WTC). Can’t have a better chance of showing your character and win. If we don’t win at least we fight it out and ensure we don’t lose. Yeah, those words are fine but you need it back it up with performance as well,” said Kumble.

It is not unusual for Gambhir to engage in passionate conversations with his team after difficult days on the field. During India’s loss to Australia in Melbourne in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he was famously animated in the dressing room.

Although there are no reports of a similar outburst after India were bowled out for 201 on a pitch where South Africa batted for almost two days, Gambhir’s fiery style may come into play if the Indian batters do not put up a stronger performance in the second innings.

To save, or perhaps even win, the Test match, the Rishabh Pant-led team (with Shubman Gill out due to injury) will need to bat for four sessions on a challenging pitch. South Africa are currently well on their way to setting India a target of 500 or more. However, fans are hoping to see their team show resilience and fight back during the Test. Regardless of the outcome, this match will test India’s character and determination.

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