IPL 2021: Gautam Gambhir Not Happy With Virat Kohli's Timing Of Announcement To Step Down As RCB Captain

Former Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir was not happy with Virat Kohli’s timing to announce giving up the captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

On Sunday, RCB posted a video on all social media platforms in which Kohli mentioned that he would quit the leadership role at the end of IPL 2021.

In the middle of IPL 2012, Kohli took over the responsibility from New Zealand’s Daniel Vettori and led the franchise in eight consecutive seasons.

If you want to do that, you probably do it after the tournament: Gautam Gambhir

Gambhir feels that if Kohli wanted to quit captaincy then he could have done it once the tournament was over as the former Indian player cited that team gets unsettled because of such announcements.

“Yes, it does (the timing of the decision surprises me). Just before the 2nd leg of the tournament. If you want to do that, you probably do it after the tournament. Because it makes the team unsettled and emotional as well,” Gambhir told Star Sports.

Virat Kohli has taken a brave decision but it’s going to be an emotional moment: Gautam Gambhir

RCB had a dream run in IPL 2021 as they won their first five games before losing the final two matches. They are currently placed in the third position with 10 points and this could be their best opportunity to win their maiden IPL title.

Gambhir hopes that RCB does not get emotional after receiving Kohli’s message and they continue to strive for their best season.

“Stepping down and retirement are two decisions which are very individual. No one should force it on anyone. Probably, you have to feel it from inside. He has taken a brave decision but it’s going to be an emotional moment. It’s never going to be easy. Probably, the players and the franchise don’t get emotional and continue to play the way they were playing in this season,” Gambhir said.

RCB will play against Gambhir’s former team KKR on Monday at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Also Read: 3 Players Who Can Replace Virat Kohli As The RCB Captain In IPL 2022