Similar to previous head coaches of India, Gautam Gambhir remains detached from the events unfolding in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, the former Indian opener has become a target of criticism from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) supporters following the team's dismal performance, where they were bowled out for just 95 runs while attempting to chase a modest total of 112 against Punjab Kings in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, on Tuesday (April 15). PBKS successfully defended the lowest score in IPL history, as KKR suffered a dramatic collapse, falling from 72/3 to 79/8.

Gambhir, who has played a significant role in KKR's three IPL championships—serving as captain in 2012 and 2014 and as a team mentor in 2024—trended prominently on the social media platform X after PBKS secured a 16-run victory over KKR.

Fans expressed their discontent online, accusing the former opener of "taking credit" away from Shreyas Iyer. Despite Iyer being the on-field leader during KKR's title-winning campaign last year, many players attributed their success to Gambhir. The situation became more contentious when KKR unexpectedly released IPL-winning captain Iyer prior to the mega-auction, leading to his acquisition by PBKS for an impressive ₹26.7 crore.

As IPL 2025 approaches, Iyer expressed that he felt he did not receive adequate recognition for guiding KKR to their third IPL championship last year. In his initial match against his former team, KKR, the PBKS captain showcased remarkable leadership through his strategic field placements and bowling adjustments, which were instrumental in defending a total of 111 runs.

Following the match, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who played a pivotal role in the team's success by taking 4 wickets for 28 runs, acknowledged Iyer's efforts in setting aggressive fields. Chahal noted, "When I bowled the first ball, it turned. Shreyas asked me if I wanted a slip; we aimed to be aggressive since we had a low score, and our only chance of winning was by taking wickets."

Meanwhile, fans quickly directed their frustration towards Gambhir, who assumed the role of head coach for India after Rahul Dravid opted not to continue following India's T20 World Cup victory.

Here are some of the reactions that made Gambhir a top trend after KKR's loss

While pursuing a target of 112 at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium, Kolkata succumbed to the pressure exerted by Punjab's Yuzvendra Chahal (4-28) and Marco Jansen (3-17), who collectively claimed seven wickets.

"My heart rate is still elevated; it’s probably over 200. At my age, over 50, I don’t need many matches like that. It just highlights the unpredictable nature of the game," remarked Punjab coach Ricky Ponting.

Kolkata's captain Ajinkya Rahane and impact player Angkrish Raghuvanshi attempted to stabilise the innings, but the visitors struggled against the host's bowling attack, losing eight wickets for just 33 runs and finishing with a mere 95 runs in 15.1 overs.

Iyer stated that he had no option but to adopt an aggressive approach by positioning the right fielders strategically.

"It’s difficult to articulate. I was simply trusting my instincts. I noticed the ball turning slightly and advised Yuzi to manage his breathing. We needed to be on the offensive, and the right players were positioned effectively. It’s hard to express myself right now, but victories like this are truly special."

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