New Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed fast bowler Arshdeep Singh following his on field clash with Daryl Mitchell during the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The incident occurred despite India’s dominant victory over New Zealand national cricket team in Ahmedabad.
The controversy began when Arshdeep’s throw struck Mitchell on the body during the match, prompting a brief exchange between the two players. The situation was quickly brought under control by the on field umpires along with India captain Suryakumar Yadav.
After reviewing the incident, the International Cricket Council found Arshdeep guilty of breaching Article 2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to throwing the ball or equipment at or near a player in an inappropriate or dangerous manner during an international match. The pacer was fined 15 percent of his match fee.
Arshdeep later clarified that the throw was unintentional and immediately apologised to Mitchell. He explained that the ball appeared to reverse swing slightly and accidentally struck the batter, prompting him to approach Mitchell and express regret.
However, Gambhir strongly supported the bowler and said aggression is natural in international cricket. According to him, players representing their country are expected to compete with intensity, especially in high pressure matches. He added that bowlers often react emotionally after conceding boundaries and such responses are part of the competitive nature of the sport.
Gambhir stated that while Arshdeep apologised, he personally believed there was no need for it. He emphasised that players on the field must focus on winning games for their country rather than worrying about maintaining friendships during competition.
The India coach also responded to criticism from Kirti Azad regarding the team’s visit to the Hanuman Temple Ahmedabad with the World Cup trophy after the victory. Gambhir said such remarks undermine the achievements of the players and insisted that the focus should remain on India’s historic third T20 World Cup triumph rather than how the team chose to celebrate the success.
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