MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir are regarded as modern-day greats of Indian cricket. Both have played monumental roles in Indian cricket's success in the 21st century.
Not to forget that they inspired the team to a victory on that famous evening in 2011 at the Wankhede when India won the World Cup, defeating Sri Lanka in the final.
However, there have been various reports about Gambhir holding a grudge against MS Dhoni in the media over the years for various reasons. Despite the controversial stories in the media, the two have respect for each other. Their partnership dates even further than playing for the Indian senior team. They enjoyed each other’s company even during India-A days.
MORE: How to watch IPL 2023 season online and on TV | Full list of players, teams for IPL 2023
Both were also very successful in the Indian Premier League (IPL). While Dhoni has won the IPL four times as captain, Gambhir has led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to two IPL titles. Recently, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan revealed how Gambhir used to be one of those rare players who could rattle 'Captain Cool' MS Dhoni.
How did Gambhir play with Dhoni's ego?
After the recent IPL game between Chennai Super Kings (CSK), still led by Dhoni, and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), mentored by Gambhir, Irfan Pathan revealed how Gambhir used to rattle Dhoni.
Pathan recalled an incident in 2016. Gambhir was captaining KKR at that time, while Dhoni captained the now-defunct Rising Pune Super Giants.
After choosing to bat first, RPSG found itself in deep trouble at 74-4. Dhoni walked in and was constrained by a shrewd Gambhir.
You can also bet on IPL matches with Dafabet.
Pathan revealed that Gambhir placed a fielder at short mid-wicket. This was a scoring zone for Dhoni, and now he was unable to score freely. Gambhir also placed Shakib Al Hasan, Suryakumar Yadav, and Yusuf Pathan in close positions. This aggressive field blocked all the scoring areas for Dhoni, and he was left frustrated.
“Gautam Gambhir played with the ego of MS Dhoni when he was the captain of KKR. He was the only one who succeeded in rattling him for years. MS was rattled to the core by the field setting." revealed Irfan Pathan on commentary duties.
MS Dhoni could only score 8 runs in 22 balls despite remaining not out as CSK made a paltry 103/6 in 17.5 overs when rain interrupted play.
KKR ended up winning the game easily by 8 wickets on Duckworth-Lewis method.
