
On October 23, 2024, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir publicly defended KL Rahul, who has been facing intense criticism on social media following a string of underwhelming performances. Rahul, a key member of India’s cricket squad, has been under fire for inconsistent form, leading to heated discussions among fans and pundits. Despite the growing outcry, Gambhir, known for his strong opinions, dismissed the importance of social media chatter, urging the player to stay focused on the game.
Speaking at a cricketing event in Mumbai, Gambhir emphasized that “social media does not matter one bit” when it comes to a player’s performance, adding that critics online should not distract Rahul from his responsibilities on the field. The former cricketer and politician also pointed out that public figures, especially sportsmen, are often subjected to undue pressure from armchair critics who may not understand the intricacies of the game.
KL Rahul, a talented batsman and wicketkeeper, has had a turbulent few months, with both stellar and subpar performances. However, Gambhir reminded fans that setbacks are a part of every sportsman’s journey, and that Rahul still has the potential to make a significant impact in upcoming matches, including the 2024 ICC World Cup.
Rahul’s fans in India have been divided, with some supporting his place in the team, while others call for fresh talent to be given a chance. Amid the online debates, Gambhir’s support serves as a timely reminder that the game should be left to the players and professionals, and that social media judgments are often far removed from the reality of the sport.