‘You’re a harsh man, Sunny’ – Matthew Hayden’s response to Sunil Gavaskar’s stinging remark on Shubman Gill

Sunil Gavaskar . (Photo Source: WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Former India batter Sunil Gavaskar made a stinging remark on Shubman Gill during India’s third Test outing against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The two heavyweights have locked horns in the third of the four-match series being played at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.

Rohit Sharma and Co. have gotten off to a shaky start, having lost more than half their side in under 90 runs. One of the most talked points leading into the contest was the inclusion of Gill in the playing XI after KL Rahul’s dismal outing in the first two clashes.

During the seventh over of the innings, Gill hurt himself as he picked up a nasty blow near the abdomen while taking a quick single. The opener taking a little breather as he called the physio. However, the act seemed to have ticked off Gavaskar, who was on commentary alongside Matthew Hayden. Gavaskar minced no words as he immediately passed on an assessment on the opener for taking the break.

“We’re seeing a little bit of repair work for Shubman Gill. He had dived to make his crease but I tell you what. This could have waited. This could have waited till the end of the over. There is a fast bowler who is bowling – he has bowled 4 deliveires; it’s hot – and you’ve given him a breather. Yes, you are hurt but wait for 2 more deliveries. Wait for the over to finish and get treated. You’re at the non-striker’s end, you’re not at the striker’s end. Simple things can make a difference,” Gavaskar said.

In response, Matthew Hayden opined that the statements by Gavaskar were too “harsh”.

“You’re a harsh man, Sunny. That’s a real stinger,” Hayden responded.

“Yes, it is but listen you are playing for your country. Just 2 more deliveries. You’re at the non-striker’s. I can understand if you’re taking strike and you’ve got that discomfort. And he’s done that after 2 deliveries,” Gavaskar remained firm on his stance.

Gill managed to get 21 runs off 18 balls after Matthew Kuhnemann’s ball turned away just enough to take his outside edge. India went 84/7 at lunch, and it remains to be seen how the home side bounces back after a poor start.