Death Threat to Team India Coach Gautam Gambhir Sparks Security Concerns
In a shocking development, Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, has received death threat emails, sending ripples of concern through the cricketing fraternity. The incident, reported on April 22, coincided with a tragic terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, amplifying the gravity of the situation.
According to Delhi Police sources, Gambhir received two threatening emails with the chilling message ‘I KILL YOU’ from a Gmail account purportedly linked to a sender identifying themselves as ‘ISIS Kashmir’. The timing and nature of the threat have prompted an immediate investigation by the authorities to ascertain the credibility and origin of the emails.
DCP (Central) M Harsha Vardhan confirmed the development, stating, ‘We have been informed about an alleged threat mail received on an email ID associated with Gautam Gambhir. The matter is being investigated.’ He further noted that Gambhir, a former BJP MP and a prominent figure in Indian cricket, is already under Delhi Police protection, though specific security details remain confidential.
A formal complaint was lodged at the Rajinder Nagar police station, accompanied by screenshots of the threatening emails. The complaint urged authorities to register an FIR and ensure the safety of Gambhir and his family. It read, ‘Dear Sir, Namaskar. As we spoke, please find below the Threat Mails received on the mail ID of Mr Gautam Gambhir (Ex-MP), Head Coach Indian Cricket Team. Kindly register the FIR accordingly and ensure the safety and security of the family.’
This is not the first time Gambhir has faced such threats. In 2022, similar incidents led to heightened security measures for the former Indian opener, who played a pivotal role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph. Known for his gritty determination on the field and his outspoken nature off it, Gambhir has often been in the spotlight, both as a cricketer and later as a parliamentarian.
As the Delhi Police delve deeper into the investigation, the focus remains on maintaining robust security protocols for Gambhir, who took over as head coach of Team India in 2023 following Rahul Dravid’s tenure. Under his guidance, India has embarked on a new chapter, with an emphasis on aggressive gameplay mirroring Gambhir’s own approach during his playing days. His recent strategies have been lauded, with the team showing promise in ongoing series, though this incident has cast a shadow over his tenure.
The cricketing world stands in solidarity with Gambhir during this unsettling time. Fans and former players have taken to social media to express their concern and support, with many calling for swift action to ensure the safety of one of Indian cricket’s most respected figures. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to release an official statement but is reportedly in close coordination with law enforcement agencies.
As investigations continue, questions loom over the intersection of sports and security in a country where cricket is more than just a game—it’s an emotion. How authorities handle this threat could set a precedent for the protection of high-profile sports personalities in India. For now, all eyes are on Delhi Police to uncover the source of this sinister email and safeguard Gautam Gambhir, a man who has given so much to Indian cricket.