'My job is not please individuals sitting in AC commentary boxes': Gautam Gambhir's hits back at Sunil Gavaskar's Champions Trophy prize money remark

Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has given a sharp reply to Sunil Gavaskar's remark on India's Champions Trophy 2025 winning prize. Gambhir delivered a pointed response, by stating, "those living in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at others." He also asserted his independence, declaring that he is not accountable to anyone regarding his personal financial decisions. Although Gambhir refrained from explicitly naming Gavaskar, his remarks strongly suggested a reference to the former Indian captain, who had previously criticised him, even following India's Champions Trophy 2025 title triumph.

ALSO READ: Big update on India's squad for Test series against England, BCCI to announce team on this date

Making his first public appearance since being appointed as India's head coach the previous year, Gambhir offered a candid and unreserved answer when questioned about his approach to handling criticism.

“Some people have made commentary box their personal fiefdom for 25 years. They have commented on my Concussion, on Champions Trophy prize money (distribution),” Gambhir said at the ABP India At 2047 Summit.

“Rather than questioning where I have given money, country should question those who have been NRIs, check-in at immigration at 11:55 pm and stay 180 days abroad for retaining NRI status. Those living in Glass Houses shouldn't throw stones at others. I don't need to tell this country where I am using my money,” he added.

ALSO READ: 'I’ll tell the BCCI to stop...': India head coach Gautam Gambhir's blunt remark on his bond with Virat Kohli

The controversy surrounding financial matters originated from Sunil Gavaskar's comments following the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He questioned whether Gautam Gambhir would emulate Rahul Dravid's approach, referring to Dravid's decision to decline an additional Rs 2.5 crore prize after India's T20 World Cup title triumph in 2024. Dravid had chosen to receive an equal share of the prize money alongside his support staff. This discussion arose after India's Champions Trophy win over New Zealand in the final in Dubai, which prompted the BCCI to announce a total prize purse of Rs 58 crore for the entire Indian men's team.