India’s victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy was not only a testament to the team’s cricketing skills but also proved to reveal a lesser-known side of their head coach, Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir, known for his serious nature, caught everyone by surprise, including fans and players, by indulging in a verbal duet of shayari (verses) and even dancing with former cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu amidst the post-match celebration.
The last, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, ended with India winning the championship with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand. As the country celebrated, the team dressing room was filled with jubilation. Amidst the joy, a portion played on Star Sports depicted a unique and touching exchange of moments between Gambhir and Sidhu.
Sidhu, who is known for his effervescent nature and poetic abilities, started a shayari battle with Gautam Gambhir. Showing his rare cheerful side, Gambhir fired back with a couplet, resulting in a charming exchange that had viewers and fellow teammates in stitches. Emboldened by the friendly atmosphere, Sidhu teasingly asked Gambhir to bust out some bhangra moves—a classic Punjabi dance synonymous with celebration.
Gambhir was initially reluctant, jokingly replied, “Main jaa raha hoon” (I am going away), trying to avoid the invitation. But with Sidhu’s insistence and the catching celebratory mood, Gambhir soon gave in. The two men’s spontaneous dance to the rhythms of Punjabi music was an instant hit, representing the togetherness and happiness in the Indian camp.
This unplanned moment struck a chord with the fans, as it reflected a different aspect of Gambhir’s personality. During his playing career and even now as a coach, Gautam Gambhir has always been seen as a man of unrelenting concentration and seriousness. To see him indulge in the party mood and indulge in a silly moment of camaraderie with Sidhu added a toast-worthy page to India’s Champions Trophy story.
Sidhu, who was remembering the encounter, had praise for Gambhir for allowing himself to engage in the revelry. He said such interludes of humor were a must, particularly after the completion of an arduous tournament, since they reaffirm the bonding among players and the celebratory spirit of the game.
The cricketing community and fans in India moved to social media sites to hail this touching moment. Footage of Gautam Gambhir and Sidhu’s dance quickly went viral, with netizens praising Gambhir for getting past his serious demeanor, even if temporarily. Several praised how this act humanized the coach and made him more accessible to fans and aspiring cricketers.
Even teammates partied with the two, hailing their coach and Sidhu. The dressing room was filled with laughter and Punjabi songs, summing up the joy of winning the coveted trophy. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were spotted clapping for the duo, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
This event emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism while also experiencing happiness. Gambhir’s capacity to relax and be involved in cultural manifestations of joy was a reflection of the diversity of athletes and coaches. It was a reminder that despite the demands of international cricket, the game is a symbol of togetherness, culture, and collective joy.
In hindsight, Gautam Gambhir-Sidhu’s dance will always be remembered as a post-win celebration and also as a reflection of the cricketing spirit—a sport that requires discipline and strictness but also has moments of pure abandon and friendship. As India soaks in the euphoria of having won the Champions Trophy, such tender moments add to the richness of cricket’s folklore, encouraging future generations to hold dear the game as well as the friendship it creates.