Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicketkeeper-batter Manvinder Bisla brutally slammed the critics for targeting his former Indian Premier League (IPL) captain and current head coach Gautam Gambhir, along with speedster Harshit Rana. Notably, the head coach Gambhir faced a lot of criticism after Harshit Rana was included in India's squad for white ball series against Australia and his inclusion in the playing XI over players like Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami.
Bisla on Gautam Gambhir's critics
Bisla believes that a narrative of 'favouritism' has been created on social media, considering the fact that both Rana and Gambhir were part of the KKR setup. The 40-year-old further stated that the criticism is mainly from 'non-KKR fans' and even claimed that there is not truth to the allegations of 'bias' against Gambhir.
"The ones opposing Harshit Rana must be non-KKR fans. I am saying this honestly. Everyone relates it this way that Gautam has a KKR background, that's why he is supporting Harshit. Koi mama chacha ka rishta to hai nahi (Gambhir is not his uncle or something). Everyone thinks there might be a KKR angle," Bisla said on 'Indian Cricket Canteen' YouTube channel.
Bisla on Harshit Rana's performance in 3rd ODI vs Australia
Harshit ended his campaign as India's highest wicket-taker in ODIs against Australia and in the T20I series, he played a 35 off 33 runs knock in the 2nd clash when India's batting order collapsed. Harshit played a crucial role with the ball in the third ODI against Australia, where India defeated Australia by nine wickets to save series whitewash. Bisla said that Harshit was overshadowed by the two star batters but pointed out that the victory would not have been possible without Harshit's heroics with the ball.
"India beat Australia in Sydney. All the influencers on social media, cricketers, non-cricketers, everyone spoke about RoKo. Did anyone speak about Harshit? If he had not set it up, what would have happened? Maybe RoKo would have still won us the match. But it was someone else who set up the match. If someone made a video on Harshit, would he have gotten those many views?"