In an engaging conversation, India's head coach Gautam Gambhir sat down with star batter Virat Kohli, discussing their mental strategies during challenging Test matches.
On the eve of the first Test against Bangladesh, the BCCI shared a video of the duo reminiscing about their cricketing days and the mental tools that helped them perform at the highest level.
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Kohli, known for his sharp cricketing mind, asked Gambhir about a specific moment from his career – his memorable double century against Australia in 2008.
What kept Gambhir focused during his knock against Australia?
Kohli kicked off the interview by recalling Gambhir's monumental innings against Australia in Delhi. Instead of delving into technical aspects, Kohli wanted to understand the mindset that allowed Gambhir to stay composed during his innings.
He reflected on Gambhir's ability to stay grounded and focused during high-pressure moments and questioned what mental tools helped him achieve this.
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In response, Gambhir flipped the conversation by referring to Kohli’s exceptional form during the 2014/15 series in Australia.
He revealed that during that tour, Kohli had mentioned how he chanted "Om Namah Shivay" before every delivery, which helped him maintain focus and composure. Gambhir explained that such mantras play a vital role in keeping players in the "zone" during tough match situations.
When an unstoppable force meets an immovable object—cricket’s greatest paradox, personified! 👌 👌
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 18, 2024
Presenting an iconic interaction between #TeamIndia Head Coach @GautamGambhir & the legendary @imVkohli 👏 👏 - By @RajalArora & @Moulinparikh#INDvBAN | @IDFCFIRSTBank
How did Gambhir rely on 'Hanuman Chalisa' during his marathon knock?
Gambhir then shared an even more personal anecdote, recounting his unforgettable innings against New Zealand in 2009 at Napier. He revealed how he relied on the "Hanuman Chalisa" to keep his focus during a two-and-a-half-day stay at the crease, in which he fought to save the match for India.
"I don’t think I could ever replicate that. During those days at the crease, I listened to 'Hanuman Chalisa' to keep myself motivated. It was what kept me going," Gambhir stated. He further elaborated that being in that kind of mental zone is rare, but when achieved, it feels almost divine.
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His teammate, VVS Laxman, also pointed out that Gambhir had not spoken a word during a significant portion of that innings – a testament to how deeply focused he was.
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