Indian cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar’s insights once shaped generations of batters—from Sachin Tendulkar to Virender Sehwag. Yet, in a jarring shift, current stars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill face scathing criticism for ignoring the maestro’s wisdom. Former India pacer Karsan Ghavri’s recent outburst spotlights a growing rift between modern icons and living history.

Why Should Modern Cricketers Embrace Legends’ Guidance?

Gavaskar’s 25-year commentary career offers a masterclass in batting nuance, yet today’s players rarely seek his counsel. Ghavri, 75, lamented this disconnect: “It’s very unfortunate that our own players don’t go to him… Players from outside go to him. Every Indian batter should.” His frustration underscores a cultural pivot—where IPL self-reliance overshadows mentorship. Unlike Tendulkar or Ganguly, who actively consulted Gavaskar, Kohli’s generation appears detached.

Recent tensions escalated when Gavaskar questioned Kohli’s strike rate during IPL 2025, prompting a cold response. Sharma similarly clashed with the legend during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ghavri dismissed these spats as “nonsense,” stressing: “They must respect the great man. His advice is for their own good.” Industry analysts note that Gavaskar’s technical acumen could address Gill’s recent form slumps or Sharma’s aging reflexes.

The Cost of Ignoring Cricket’s Oracle

Gavaskar’s absence from India’s strategy sessions contrasts sharply with global practices. Australian coach Andrew McDonald confirmed seeking his insights during tours, while England’s young batters routinely approach him. Former coach Ravi Shastri, though more outspoken, shares Gavaskar’s intent but not his diplomatic delivery. “Sunil does it differently,” Ghavri noted, hinting at the legend’s nuanced critique.

Data reveals troubling patterns:

Kohli’s Test average dipped to 42.3 in 2025 (vs. career 49.3).
Gill’s strike rate against spin fell 18% since 2024.
Gavaskar’s expertise in these areas remains untapped. As ESPN Cricinfo’s Annesha Ghosh observed: “Legends offer contextual wisdom no algorithm can replicate.”

BCCI insiders confirm no player approached Gavaskar formally in 2024–25. With the World Test Championship final looming, Ghavri’s warning echoes: “If Gavaskar advised Kohli or Sharma, we’d know. We haven’t.”

Must Know

Q: Why is Sunil Gavaskar’s advice crucial for Virat Kohli?
A: Gavaskar’s mastery against pace and technical adjustments could remedy Kohli’s recent inconsistencies, especially in seaming conditions. His experience in 125 Tests offers irreplaceable insights.

Q: Has Rohit Sharma publicly responded to Gavaskar’s critiques?
A: No. Reports suggest Sharma complained to BCCI after Gavaskar questioned his captaincy during the 2025 Australia tour, escalating tensions.

Q: Do other international players seek Gavaskar’s guidance?
A: Yes. Players like Steve Smith and Joe Root have consulted him. Gavaskar mentored Kane Williamson during New Zealand’s 2024 India tour.

Q: How did past Indian stars benefit from Gavaskar?
A: Tendulkar credited Gavaskar for footwork drills in 1997, while Ganguly adopted his mental routines during the 2001 Eden Gardens epic.

Q: Could this snub affect India’s ICC rankings?
A: Potentially. Ignoring proven wisdom risks tactical gaps. India currently ranks 3rd in Tests; Gavaskar’s inputs could bolster top-order resilience.

Q: What’s Gavaskar’s stance on the situation?
A: He remains approachable but won’t impose advice. In a June 2025 Sportstar interview, he said: “My door is open. Always.”

Respecting cricket’s elders isn’t nostalgia—it’s strategy. As Kohli and Sharma navigate career twilight, Gavaskar’s untapped wisdom could redefine their legacies. For fans, this snub isn’t just unfortunate; it’s a tactical blunder. Share this story to champion mentorship in sports.