Gautam Gambhir Opens Up About his Preparation for 2011 World Cup

Former Indian opening batsman, Gautam Gambhir reveals about his preparation in the lead up to the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka. However, on Tuesday, the left-hander had announced his retirement from all formats of the game.

Meanwhile, Gambhir was a crucial thread in India’s successful campaigns in the 2011 World Cup. He also remained the top-scorer of the tournament. Moreover, the southpaw had played a vital knock of 97 runs to help his nation triumph over the Islanders. However, Gambhir along with the then skipper, MS Dhoni added a crucial 109 runs partnership for the fourth wicket.

Gambhir reveals about his preparation

Moreover, India created history in 2011 by becoming the first host nation to win the World Cup. Gautam Gambhir’s opening partner, Virender Sehwag got out at duck after Lasith Malinga bowled a brilliant delivery to him. The 37-year-old was the lone warrior before Dhoni entered into the field ahead of Yuvraj Singh at number four.

“When I had to go into bat, I didn’t even realise when I was in. Off the second ball, Viru (Virender Sehwag) got out and took a referral and by the time I realised what was happening. I was already standing in the middle, not thinking anything,” Gautam Gambhir said.

Furthermore, Gambhir played an excellent inning till the 41st over of the game. It was not the first time that he had stepped up his performance in a big final. Even in the 2007 World T20 final against Pakistan, it was Gambhir whose knock helped India post a competitive total.

“Had I got the opportunity to think or openers played 10-15 overs, the occasion could have got the better of me. The innings got over, I was just getting seated with my pads, and I was out in the middle and facing Lasith Malinga off my first ball. When you are in the middle, you only think of what is coming next towards you and tackle that.” Gautam Gambhir added.

Meanwhile, the swashbuckling opener had played 58 Tests, 147 ODIs and 37 T20Is scoring 4154, 5238 and 932 runs respectively for India.