Navjot Singh Sidhu, former India opener, has strongly backed Gautam Gambhir amid heavy public scrutiny over the head coach's role during the England tour. In a direct message on his YouTube channel, Sidhu questioned Gambhir's critics, urging them to now “stand up and greet him” after India secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw in the five-Test series. India entered the series missing stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Despite this, the team showed grit, particularly during their dramatic six-run victory in the Oval Test, levelling the series. Sidhu credited Gambhir’s firm leadership and refusal to buckle under pressure. Sidhu remarked, "We do a lot of hero-worshipping. I want to say that whenever India plays even a little badly, anyone and everyone climbs on Gautam Gambhir and blames him. Will you stand up and greet him today?" He acknowledged that wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav might have been a better choice but praised Gambhir’s belief in his squad. Read also: Sharjah Stadium Divides Seating for Pakistan, Afghanistan Fans in Tri-Series Praise for Youth-Backed Transition Under Gambhir Sidhu highlighted Gambhir’s role in giving chances to emerging players like Akash Deep and Washington Sundar. He stressed that the coach’s conviction amid constant criticism was commendable. "It was Gautam Gambhir who insisted on this transition, who gave opportunities to guys like Akash Deep and Washington. Yes, Kuldeep was maybe a better option. But he had conviction... today give him the due that he deserves." Reflecting on India’s young and relatively untested squad, Sidhu added, “There were many unknowns when the team went... Gambhir had said big names are missing, but it’s an opportunity.” India’s draw in England came after a series whitewash at home against New Zealand and prior losses in Australia. Gambhir, under intense scrutiny, now finds support from a voice once central to India’s cricketing narrative.