Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has recently found himself mired in an online storm following the circulation of a video that captured him displaying unbecoming behavior during the India vs. Nepal Asia Cup match. A distinguished part of the Asia Cup broadcasting crew, Gambhir seemingly lost his professional restraint when fans began chanting “Virat Kohli”. Instead of overlooking the jibes, as he has done before, he responded with a gesture that has sent shockwaves across the virtual world.

The incident took place at the Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka, amid a 45-minute break caused by rain. As Gambhir sauntered past the sight screen in the vicinity of the dugout and the changing room, his attention was caught by a segment of the crowd chanting ‘Kohli-Kohli.’ Losing his composure, Gambhir responded with a gesticulation that has since stirred up a massive internet uproar, placing him in a potentially volatile situation.

Did Gambhir unleash a fiery gesture only because of the ‘Kohli-Kohli’ chants against him at the match venue? The former Indian cricketer has broken his silence on the matter.

Gambhir said was troubled by some fans of the Pakistan cricket team. Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday, Gambhir opened up about his controversial gesture during the continental tournament. “A lie can travel half way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes. Not everything is as it seems. Any Indian would react how I did to the kind of slogans used against our nation. I love our players & I love my country," Gambhir said.