India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir came out strongly in defense of Virat Kohli, shutting down criticism about Kohli’s alleged weakness against leg spin. This came after Kohli played another match-winning knock in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against Australia, scoring 84 off 98 balls* to take India to victory in their chase of 265 runs.
When a journalist questioned Kohli’s struggles against leg spin, Gambhir snapped back, dismissing the idea that one of India’s greatest batters has a major flaw in his game.
“Buddy, when you play 300 games, you will end up getting out to some of the spinners. So that’s okay. He’s got a hundred in this competition, he’s got an 80 in this competition. When you’ve got runs in this competition, you will eventually get out to some kind of a bowler.”
Gambhir’s fiery response highlights his unwavering support for Kohli, who has been in outstanding form throughout the Champions Trophy 2025.
Virat Kohli’s Performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Kohli has been one of the standout batters in the Champions Trophy 2025, proving yet again why he is regarded as the chase master.
📊 Virat Kohli in Champions Trophy 2025:
✅ Matches: 4
✅ Runs: 217
✅ Average: 72.33
✅ Strike Rate: 83.14
✅ Highest Score: 109* (vs. Pakistan)
Kohli’s match-winning 84 against Australia* adds another remarkable chase to his already legendary record. His performances have played a key role in India’s road to the final, where they will aim for their third ICC Champions Trophy title.
Why Gautam Gambhir Defends Virat Kohli: Understanding the Leg Spin Debate
Virat Kohli has been dismissed against spinners 77 times in ODIs, but his average against leg spin (44.58) remains impressive. Critics often point out his recent struggles against Adil Rashid, who has dismissed him five times in ODIs.
However, Gambhir shut down the debate, reminding critics that:
✔ Even the best players get out to certain types of bowlers.
✔ Kohli has scored centuries and match-winning knocks in crucial games.
✔ His overall record against spinners is still outstanding.
“Rather than dissecting and bisecting that he’s got out to leg spin, I think when you play 300 ODIs, you will eventually get out to a certain kind of bowler—and that’s okay.”
Gambhir’s strong defense of Kohli suggests that the Indian team management is not concerned about this narrative and is instead focused on Kohli’s match-winning abilities.
Champions Trophy 2025: India vs. Australia Semi-Final Highlights
🏏 Match Summary:
- Australia: 264/9 in 50 overs
- India: 265/5 in 48.3 overs
- Virat Kohli: 84* (98) – Match-winning innings
- India won by 5 wickets and advanced to the final
📌 Key Moments:
✔ Jasprit Bumrah’s early breakthroughs helped restrict Australia.
✔ Hardik Pandya’s all-round performance played a crucial role.
✔ Virat Kohli anchored the chase and guided India to the final.
With India securing a spot in the final, Kohli will look to deliver another big performance and lead the team to another ICC trophy.
Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli: From Rivals to Strong Supporters
Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli have often been perceived as rivals, given their fiery on-field exchanges in the IPL. However, since taking over as India’s head coach, Gambhir has been a strong advocate for Kohli, consistently backing his experience and leadership.
🔥 Past Incidents Between Gambhir & Kohli:
- IPL 2013: Heated exchange during a match between RCB and KKR.
- IPL 2023: On-field spat between Kohli and Gambhir’s LSG team.
- Champions Trophy 2025: Gambhir strongly defends Kohli, proving their mutual respect.
Gambhir’s defense of Kohli shows that their past differences have been put aside, with the common goal of leading India to victory.
India’s Road to the Champions Trophy 2025 Final
India has been dominant throughout the tournament, winning all their group-stage matches and semi-final.
📌 India’s Matches in Champions Trophy 2025:
✔ Beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets
✔ Beat Pakistan by 5 wickets (Kohli’s century)
✔ Beat New Zealand by 7 wickets
✔ Beat Australia in the semi-final
🔥 Final Match: India will now face the winner of New Zealand vs. South Africa in the grand finale.
With Gautam Gambhir backing Kohli, and India playing top-quality cricket, the Men in Blue are favorites to lift the Champions Trophy once again.
Gautam Gambhir Stands Firm in Support of Virat Kohli
The Gautam Gambhir defends Virat Kohli moment in the post-match press conference was a clear message to critics: Kohli remains one of the best batters in world cricket, and questioning his abilities is pointless.
✔ Kohli’s performance proves he thrives under pressure.
✔ His record against leg spin is solid, despite recent dismissals.
✔ Gambhir’s backing reinforces Kohli’s crucial role in India’s success.
As India gears up for the Champions Trophy 2025 final, fans will be hoping for another masterclass from Kohli, as he aims to lead the team to another ICC title.
🏏 Will Virat Kohli deliver in the final? Can India win the Champions Trophy? Share your thoughts!
