Gambhir should stop 'blame game'; 'Kohli, Rohit may be next targets': Ex-Pak batter on India dressing room controversy

As India gears up for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the team is grappling with the aftermath of a dismal 2024/25 season, which saw them miss the World Test Cup Championship Final for the first time. The situation has been worsened by leaked comments from head coach Gautam Gambhir, sparking controversy. Amid furore over the BCCI meeting and dressing room leaks, former Pakistani cricketer urged Gambhir to stop the blame game, warning that such incidents can harm team morale.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has expressed concerns over the reported dressing room leaks in the Indian team, stating that ‘it's not a good sign’ and can harm team unity. Basit claimed that the issue was discussed during the BCCI's review meeting on January 11, where Gautam Gambhir allegedly blamed Sarfaraz Khan for the leaks. However, Basit clarified that Sarfaraz was not present at the meeting, and emphasized that there should be no blame game.

He emphasized the importance of unity among key stakeholders in the Indian cricket team, including BCCI chairman Roger Binny, selectors, captain Rohit Sharma, and players. He stressed that all four pillars must be aligned and share a common mindset to build a strong team. 

Basit also cautioned that leaked information and media reports can harm team dynamics and target individual players, including high-profile names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.” Such news are spread to affect the team environment and media plays a key role. Whether it’s targeted towards Virat, Rohit or another group at Gambhir,” said Basit while urging the team to be vigilant against such distractions and maintain a united front.

Basit also stressed that India needs to focus on their upcoming ODI series against England, which serves as a crucial dress rehearsal for the Champions Trophy. The tournament is scheduled to begin on February 19, just a week after the third ODI in Ahmedabad.