The clamour for revival of Indo-Pak bilateral cricket is growing with every passing day, but Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir is not overtly excited about it as he feels playing against the arch-rivals is no different from taking on a Bangladesh or an Australia.
Published: Jun 08, 2012, 04:39 PM (IST)
Edited: Jun 08, 2012, 04:39 PM (IST)
Gautam Gambhir said playing for India is the biggest motivation © Getty Images
New Delhi: Jun 8, 2012
The clamour for revival of Indo-Pak bilateral cricket is growing with every passing day, but Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir is not overtly excited about it as he feels playing against the arch-rivals is no different from taking on a Bangladesh or an Australia.
“For me, Pakistan is no different from Bangladesh, Australia or New Zealand. The main thing is that you are playing for your country and that in itself is a big motivation,” said the straight-talking left-hander, who has had on-field run-ins with Pakistani cricketers, including the feisty Shahid Afridi.
Talking about his own team and the transition phase it is enduring after the retirement of veterans such as Rahul Dravid, Gambhir rejected suggestions that youngsters are under pressure trying to fill in the big voids.
“There are no seniors or juniors in the Indian team. Everyone is equal in a team. If you are playing for India, you have to take the responsibility. Obviously, when you have experience, you are a bit more matured,” Gambhir said after his office team ONGC beat Rajnigandha Club at Modern School ground (Barakhamba Road) in the Lala Raghubir Hot Weather tournament.
He has now played a couple of matches for his office side ONGC in unbearable Delhi heat but he has no complaints.
“I am employed with ONGC. The company pays me salary and it is my responsibility to play for them.” (PTI)
