What Caused Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir IPL Spat? Eyewitness From 2013 Season Reveals

Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir IPL spat [Source: X]

Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir have shared one of the most talked-about rivalries in Indian Premier League (IPL). Their heated exchanges on the field grabbed headlines for years and became a major talking point among fans. 

While the two have moved on and now share a healthy professional relationship with the Indian team, the reason behind their famous 2013 IPL clash has once again come into the spotlight.

Former ICC umpire Anil Chaudhary, who witnessed the incident from close quarters, has now revealed what led to the confrontation between the two star cricketers.

What led to Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir IPL Spat?

Anil Chaudhary recently recalled the famous IPL 2013 incident involving Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir. 

The confrontation took place on April 11, 2013, during a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

According to Chaudhary, he sensed that a clash could happen because both Kohli and Gambhir have similar personalities on the field. 

Notably, he explained that both players come from North India and play the game with a lot of passion and aggression. As a result, emotions can sometimes get the better of them during high-pressure matches.

"I knew something like that would happen because all of them from the North play with aggression. I have played local cricket too, and our players have always played like this. If they don't play with that aggression, their performances won't come out as well. 

The flavour of the game won't be there if you put too many restrictions on the players. But there's a limit, and it shouldn't be crossed," the Ex-umpire said.

Anil Chaudhary Defends Virat Kohli's Aggressive Nature

While speaking about Kohli, Chaudhary said he has known the former India captain since his junior cricket days and has officiated many of his matches. Therefore, he believes Kohli's aggression should never be mistaken for hatred or bad intentions.

"Actually, my advantage with Virat was that I had officiated his matches since childhood, so I have known him for a long time. He doesn't have any malice," Chaudhary said.

He further explained that Kohli reacts emotionally during matches. At the same time, he also appreciates good decisions and is friendly with officials and players once the situation cools down.

"He reacts aggressively sometimes, but if you're right, he'll give you a thumbs up too. Between overs, he'll come over and put a hand around your waist. But he is lively throughout. Players like him should be there, otherwise, the game will get boring," he said.

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Virat Kohli And Gambhir Clashed Again In IPL 2023

The rivalry did not end with the 2013 incident. Nearly ten years later, Kohli and Gambhir were involved in another heated exchange after RCB defeated LSG during IPL 2023 season.

The drama began after Kohli exchanged words with LSG fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq during the match. Later, after the post-match handshakes, Kohli and Gambhir were seen arguing on the field. The incident once again became one of the biggest talking points of the tournament.

Virat Kohli And Gautam Gambhir's Relationship Has Improved

Over the last few years, things appear to have changed between the two Delhi cricketers. Their relationship has improved, especially after Gautam Gambhir became the head coach of the Indian team.

Although there were earlier reports claiming that the two were not on talking terms, recent moments have suggested otherwise. During India's tour of England, Kohli and Gambhir were seen chatting, laughing and spending time together during training sessions, putting many rumours to rest.

Now, with Gambhir leading the Indian team as head coach and Kohli continuing as one of the team's senior players, both are expected to play important roles in India's upcoming assignments, including ODI World Cup 2027, which is set to take place in South Africa and Zimbabwe next year.

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