‘Deep down, you want to win that’ - Ravi Shastri hints at Gambhir’s hidden passion to win against Pakistan

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir recently talked about the intensity of the India vs Pakistan game and said that it is just another match for them. He believes that the emotions might get high during the clash but the contest remains the same. The arch-rivals will clash against each other in the upcoming Champions Trophy on February 23.

Meanwhile, former India coach Ravi Shastri believes that Gambhir is hiding his passion and hunger for a win behind that poker face. He said that his calm demeanour is just for the media. 

“I was the coach for seven years. Whenever I was asked, I said the same thing (as Gambhir). But let me assure you, deep down, there's a lot more to that than you actually think—that's for the media. You have to say it. But deep down, you want to win that. Because if you don't, you'll be reminded of it until the next time you play against Pakistan.” Shastri was quoted as saying by India Today.

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They'll remind you if you lose one: Ravi Shastri

It is to be noted that India suffered a humiliating 10-wicket loss against Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup under Shastri. He also added that pressure is on both sides whenever these two nations clash. 

“People don't care what you have done in the past. They're not bothered about the last 10 games if you won eight or nine. But they'll remind you if you lose one, until the next time you play them. It can be a taxi driver, it could be anyone on the street. What happened to India? The same question to Pakistan. What happened to Pakistan? So it always plays on your mind, whether you like it or not, it's a different game. Different beasts altogether.” Shastri added.