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Tag: Gautam Gambhir

  • Uber flips the script with Gambhir and Ashwin in playful new campaign

    Uber flips the script with Gambhir and Ashwin in playful new campaign

    MUMBAI: When Gautam Gambhir smiles in an ad, you know the commute must be smooth. Uber India has rolled out a fresh campaign featuring cricket stalwarts Gautam Gambhir and Ravichandran Ashwin, casting them not in their usual serious avatars but in refreshingly playful moods as they zip around in Uber rides.

    The series of films, peppered with social-first content, shows how Uber Auto, Bike and Car rides can turn India’s daily grind of traffic snarls, heat and hassle into journeys that are reliable, affordable and surprisingly uplifting.

    “We wanted to bring a fresh, fun lens to Uber’s role in removing everyday travel struggles. With the unexpected duo of Gambhir and Ashwin, we’ve created a light-hearted take on how Uber makes rides not just reliable and affordable, but also mood uplifting. Our aim is to be the go-to brand for young Indian aspirers, one that connects function with feeling and nudges even non-users to try Uber for the first time,” said Uber head of marketing for India and South Asia Ameya Velankar.

    The campaign takes a culture-first approach, rolling out in multiple regional languages and markets, tapping into local humour, pop culture cues and everyday commuting insights. The wide rollout spans TV, digital, social platforms, and outdoor, ensuring Uber’s message is seen and felt across urban India.

    Uber today operates across two-, three- and four-wheelers, along with buses and mass transit options, giving millions of Indians flexibility to pick rides that suit their budget, need and time. From the quick bike dash to beat gridlock, to a trusty auto or a comfortable car trip, Uber has woven itself into India’s urban fabric.

    With creative duties handled by FCB India and media by Essence Mediacomm, the campaign underscores Uber’s positioning as more than just a ride, it’s a mood-changer. By making cricket’s most no-nonsense players break into grins, Uber hopes to convince even the most commute-weary Indian that travel can be a happy ride after all.

  • Gautam Gambhir bares it all at Goafest 2025: “Cricket is a part of my life, not my life”

    Gautam Gambhir bares it all at Goafest 2025: “Cricket is a part of my life, not my life”

    MUMBAI: If there were any doubts about Gautam Gambhir being a straight shooter, they were obliterated in the opening minutes of his fireside chat at Goafest 2025. Titled “Why So Serious? The Making of Gautam Gambhir”, the session was anything but sombre. Moderated by CNN News18’s Anand Narasimhan, the hour-long conversation unpacked the mind of one of Indian cricket’s most intense figures—and revealed the grit behind the game face.

    “10,000 runs are not important”, Gambhir asserted early on, dismissing the fetish for stats in favour of match-defining moments. “You don’t play for broadcasters or the media; you play for the common man”. That common man, he noted, has always been his ultimate judge, not press headlines or highlight reels.

    Gambhir emphasised that public memory may be short, but for players, the work behind the scenes is lifelong. His mantra to aspiring cricketers and leaders: “It’s okay to make mistakes. Take decisions with conviction”.

    The conversation took a personal turn as Gambhir spoke of his singular regret—not serving in the army. “If given a choice today, I would give up everything to join”, he said. That spirit, he added, defines both his approach to cricket and life. “I’m not into Bollywood, I’m not into corporates. I’m just here to win”.

    Touching on his coaching stint, Gambhir credited India’s Champions Trophy win to the entire dressing room. “It wasn’t about me or the captain. Everyone contributed”.

    When asked about his notorious intensity, he responded, “There is nothing wrong with having a game face. Cricket is a profession where only one side wins”.

    On heated dressing room exchanges and media narratives, Gambhir remained stoic. “If it’s not personal, it ends on the field. Once the match is done, it’s dinner and back to normal”.

    He admitted that India’s transition phase in red-ball cricket demands patience. “You can’t compare formats. Australia was tough, but so will England be. The key is to stay the course”.

    On retirement, he recalled waking up one morning in 2018 and realising the fire was gone. “If you can’t be the best, it’s time to go. And once you go, don’t look back”.

    Politics, he claimed, “just happened”. He entered with a desire to change things, but eventually returned to cricket. “Five years in politics taught me my peace lies on the pitch”.

    His closing advice was aimed at India’s next generation of leaders: “If your intent is right, don’t fear failure. Lead from the front, be vulnerable, and never stop being honest”.

  • Sony Sports flags off anti-drugs movement

    Sony Sports flags off anti-drugs movement

    MUMBAI: Drugs and their abuse are two of the most worrisome habits amongst India’s youth. And Sony Sports Network has put its best foot behind an effort to curtail the consumption of hallucinogens. Titled ‘Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar,’ its mission is to motivate Indian youth and do it over the long term.

    According to a United Nations study, approximately 13 percent of drug abuse victims in India are below 20, with the nation experiencing a 70 percent rise in narcotic consumption over the past eight years. And in most instances, drugs are usually introduced to youngsters  by someone they know, in many cases, a friend.

    “Sony Sports Network is extremely proud to launch the Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar’ movement and we sincerely believe that sports has the power to instil and bring about a positive change among the youth,” says  Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer -distribution & international business and head – sports business Rajesh Kaul. “In association with India’s top athletes across disciplines, we are confident of making a statement and inspiring young India to stay away from the influence of drugs.”

    Prominent athletes of India across disciplines have joined hands with Sony Sports Network to spread the Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar message to young India. In the films, these sporting icons are spreading awareness of the harmful effects of drugs and aiming to inspire as well as encourage people to choose the life of a champion by saying no to drugs.

    Newly appointed head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, football stalwarts like Sunil Chhetri and Bhaichung Bhutia, multiple grand slam winner Sania Mirza, icons like Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal, Indian women’s cricket team vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, Indian Hockey veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, Indian men’s hockey team’s former captain Manpreet Singh and two-time world champion boxer Nikhat Zareen are featured in these films. In addition to this, Indian football team captain and goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, former team India cricketer Ashish Nehra, team India cricketer Deepak Chahar, Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal, ace Indian shooter Anjum Moudgil, Indian women’s hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia, Asian Games gold medallist Chirag Shetty and Satwik Rankireddy, Puja Tomar who created history as the first Indian to win a fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Indian women’s team bowler Sneh Rana are just some of eminent personalities who have come forward to be a part of Sony Sports Network’s public service movement.

    ‘Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar’ is aimed at potential first-time drug users to make the right choice and saying NO to sampling drugs. The whole movement of Iss Baar Drugs Ki Haar aims to motivate young India and emphasize living a fit, fulfilling, and healthy life through sports rather than succumbing to drug abuse.

  • Gallant Sports unveils injury-free multi-sports field at Modern School, Vasant Vihar

    Gallant Sports unveils injury-free multi-sports field at Modern School, Vasant Vihar

    Mumbai: Gallant Sports has announced the inauguration of a state-of-the-art injury-free multi-sports field at Modern School in Vasant Vihar. This cutting-edge facility, unveiled by cricketing legend and ex-Modernite Gautam Gambhir, marks a significant milestone in India’s sports infrastructure. It aims to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for young athletes to train and compete.

    The sporting culture in India is evolving, with schools like Modern School in Vasant Vihar upgrading their sports infrastructure to meet international standards. Gallant Sports addresses the specific needs of such progressive schools, creating and building top-quality facilities for their students.

    “The sporting culture in India is changing rapidly, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of sports in a student’s overall development,” said Gautam Gambhir, head coach of the Indian cricket team and ex-Modernite, while speaking to the media. “Schools play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent, and investing in multi-sports turf is crucial. It not only encourages active participation but also fosters a spirit of competition and teamwork among students. These initiatives enhance physical fitness and instill discipline and resilience, qualities essential both on and off the field. By providing world-class facilities, schools can empower their students to excel in diverse sports, paving the way for future champions and contributing to a healthier, more active nation.”

    Gallant Sports is leading the way in innovative sports infrastructure with the introduction of injury-free multi-sports fields in India. Covering nearly 100,000 sq ft, this advanced field features a unique non-rubber infill product and perforated pipes for effective water management. A shock pad enhances safety, supporting activities such as football, futsal, hockey, cricket, and athletics. Despite facing challenges like Delhi’s heat waves and rains, the project was completed on schedule, ensuring a safe and enjoyable playing space for children.

    Gallant Sports CEO Nasir Ali expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are extremely happy to inaugurate an injury-free multi-sports field. Investing in high-quality sports facilities is crucial for the holistic development of students. Schools should prioritise upgrading their sports infrastructure to provide students with the best opportunities to excel in various sports. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to promoting safe and sustainable sports infrastructure in India.”

    India boasts top-tier sports facilities managed by government bodies, private companies, and local organisations. While cricket remains immensely popular, there is a significant need for enhanced facilities for sports such as football, hockey, and athletics. The maintenance of these facilities poses challenges, with many requiring safety and usability improvements, hindering the growth of sports. Increased investment from both government and corporate sectors is crucial to renovating these facilities, improving access to sports, and supporting young athletes in realising their potential. This initiative will not only advance sports development in India but also elevate the country’s global sporting reputation.

  • Lava partners with Gautam Gambhir to launch Blaze X

    Lava partners with Gautam Gambhir to launch Blaze X

    Mumbai: Lava International Ltd, an Indian mobile handset and technology solutions company, has released a digital film starring cricketer Gautam Gambhir for the launch of its new smartphone Blaze X. The film conceptualised and created by 82.5, an Ogilvy company is laced with humour creating excitement amongst the audiences for the new phone designed and manufactured in India. The campaign #BlazekaCraze aims to celebrate and connect with the fans of Lava Blaze, a series featuring prominent hits like Lava Blaze Curve, Lava Blaze Pro 5G, Lava Blaze 2 5G and Blaze 5G.

    The campaign introduces Lava Blaze X, a disruptive new model that offers numerous high-end features at a very affordable price point. The campaign leverages this value proposition and takes a creative leap where people- feeling betrayed by their currently owned phones when compared to Blaze X resort to violently breaking them.

    Gautam Gambhir comes across as a very apt choice for the campaign as he is known for his aggressive demeanor and an upfront on-field persona. It perfectly symbolizes what Blaze X stands for – the undisputed champion of its segment.

    The film unfolds in two parts – the first segment introduces Gambhir in an unusual temperament creating inquisitiveness amongst the viewers. The second segment reveals the features of the new Lava Blaze X which is brand’s latest offering to the Blaze fans.

    Commenting on the launch, Lava International Ltd marketing head Puravansh Maitreya said, “The thought behind the campaign ‘Blaze ka Craze’ was to connect with the young audience of Blaze series and introduce a product that is powerful, great looking and a true value for money. The film rightly captures the excitement amongst the fans for the new Blaze X. I am grateful to Gautam for his support to Lava and the fans of Blaze series.”

    Commenting on the campaign president – North & East, Chandana Agarwal said, “Lava is all set to change expectations from a phone, Blaze X is a perfect demonstration of this ambition, Gautam Gambhir, an epitome of discipline and prescriptive behavior is used bring alive the impact of this craze.”

    82.5 communication chief creative officer Anuraag Khandelwal said, “It was a perfect collaboratives effort between the client and us to create something clutter breaking for a fantastic product like the Lava Blaze X. We wanted to do something that’ll create conversations and buzz on social, so we went crazy, the passionate people at Lava backed it and Blaze ka Craze cha Gaya!”

  • Star Sports Hindi feed goes global in a historic first for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

    Star Sports Hindi feed goes global in a historic first for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, is thrilled to announce the global expansion of its Hindi feed for the marquee tournament. Fans in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East can now savour uninterrupted coverage of all the thrilling action in Hindi. This marks the first-ever occasion where the ICC Men’s CWC is being broadcast in Hindi within these regions, accessible through both linear and digital platforms, catering to the vibrant Indian diaspora. This milestone underscores the profound significance of cultural pride -‘Hindi Mein Baat Hai, Kyunki Hindi Mein Jazbaat Hai.’ (The language brings out all the emotions)

    The coverage of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in Hindi will be available on:

    •    ESPN+ (USA/Canada)
    •    Willow TV (USA/Canada)
    •    Fox Sports / Kayo (Australia)
    •    Starzplay (Middle East)
    •    CricLife Max (Middle East)

    The Hindi coverage on these platforms will also include Star Sports’ pre-match show ‘Cricket Live’, India’s most watched cricket show.

    John Lasker, senior vice president of ESPN+, said, “Anchored by ESPNcricinfo, the leading digital destination for cricket news and information around the world, ESPN has a long history covering top-level international cricket for fans in the U.S. Presenting the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in both English and Hindi on ESPN+ is part of our continued commitment to growing an established audience of cricket fans in the States and around the world.”

    Fox Sports managing director Steve Crawley said, “We know there is a large and passionate Australian Indian cricket community so to be able to provide the Hindi feed, powered by an expert team of commentators, during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 for all Indian matches plus the semi-finals and final on FOX SPORTS gives fans more choice and more ways to enjoy the action, and that’s good for cricket and good for fans.”

    Disney Star head- sports Sanjog Gupta said, ‘’The global response to Disney Star’s Hindi coverage for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has been tremendous as we take the excitement of the tournament to hearts and homes of millions worldwide and deepen their engagement. The coverage in Hindi, in addition to the World Feed, not only makes it more accessible to the Indian diaspora but more importantly, galvanises the sense of belonging and deep emotional connection with Indian Cricket. The Hindi feed, with India-focussed storylines, distinctly Indian perspectives on non-India narratives, unique visuals including customised graphics and powered by an incredible line-up of talent, will significantly bolster the unifying experience of watching Cricket for Indians worldwide and hopefully deepen the sense of pride in being an Indian Cricket fan.”

    This illustrious panel of commentators includes iconic Indian cricketing figures such as Sunil Gavaskar, a 1983 World Cup winner, former India Head Coach Ravi Shastri, and members of the 2011 World Cup-winning side – Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh, and Piyush Chawla. Adding to the wealth of expertise are former India cricketers Mohammad Kaif, Irfan Pathan, and Sanjay Manjrekar, renowned for their tactical acumen in the sport. The roster also features former India women’s captain Mithali Raj, along with South Africa’s spin wizard Imran Tahir, former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta, domestic veteran Amol Muzumdar, and cricket presenter Jatin Sapru, all of whom will lend their voices and effervescent charm to the StarCast.

    Irfan Pathan, T20 World Cup winner who is part of Star Sports “StarCast” for World Cup said, “Cricket has a unique way of uniting people, and with the Hindi feed reaching Indian fans across the globe, we are not just witnessing a tournament; we are celebrating the spirit of cricket in a language that resonates with emotions. It’s a fantastic initiative that ensures every passionate Indian fan, regardless of their location, can experience the magic of the World Cup in a language that feels like home.”

    India’s Cricket World Cup Winner, Harbhajan Singh, said, “I am proud to be part of StarCast’s Hindi feed that is engaging with fans overseas during the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. This allows our extended family outside our country to revel the thrilling action in their preferred language.”

    India’s Cricket World Cup Winner, Gautam Gambhir, said, “I’m excited to see fans from all corners of the world coming together to celebrate this great sport in the language they love. With the Hindi feed now available globally, we are breaking barriers and ensuring that cricket enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds can enjoy all the action from the tournament together with the rest of India.”

  • Thums Up launches ‘Fan Pulse’ with cricket legends on Disney+ Hotstar

    Thums Up launches ‘Fan Pulse’ with cricket legends on Disney+ Hotstar

    Mumbai: India’s homegrown beverage brand The Coca-Cola Company, is excited to announce the launch of ‘Thums Up Fan Pulse’, an innovative and immersive cricket experience in collaboration with Disney+ Hotstar. The Thums Up Fan Pulse introduces a new era of cricket engagement, amplifying every voice, fostering passionate discussions, with expert insights, and unparalleled fan participation.

    https://www.hotstar.com/in/shows/thums-up-fan-pulse/1260152395?filters=content_type%3Dshow_clips

    The first-of-its-kind endeavour is set to transform the cricket content landscape, resonating with the true spirit of Thums Up. ‘Thums Up Fan Pulse’ isn’t just a platform; it’s a vibrant space for fans to share opinions, interact with experts, and pose the pivotal question: “Will India Win?” The series featuring top experts, including Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Virendra Sehwag, Dinesh Karthik and hosted by the “voice of cricket” – Harsha Bhogle will showcase the pulse of every cricket fan as they give unique insights about every aspect of the upcoming World Cup.

    By integrating data, tech, and social listening, Thums Up is revolutionizing fan engagement. It uncovers insights about players, team India, and the World Cup fueling a personalized content experience for every cricket enthusiast, through various channels – pack, digital, and OOH with enthusiasts enthusiastically participating and sharing their views on the platform.

    Commenting on the launch of ‘Thums Up Fan Pulse’ and the association with Disney+ Hotstar, Coca-Cola India, and South-West Asia senior category director of sparkling flavours Tish Condeno said, “We’re absolutely thrilled to announce the launch of ‘Thums Up Fan Pulse,’ an immersive experience that encapsulates the pulse of every cricket fan. With our unique series in collaboration with Disney+ Hotstar, we are honoured to feature cricket legends together on one platform. Our aim is to unite cricket enthusiasts, engage fans, and build up the excitement for the upcoming ICC World Cup.”

    Disney Star head of network – Ad Sales Ajit Varghese said, “Cricket may be a strategic sport, but it involves the heart and mind in equal measures. Be it calculating the possibilities of a six in an over or praying for the last ball to score a six, it is this mix of emotion that makes the game great. At Disney+ Hotstar, we are proud to partner with Thums Up to curate a unique series like Thums Up Pulse. It quenches our national thirst for cricket with logic & passion served by experts like Sourav Ganguly, Virendra Sehwag, Harsha Bhogle and other prominent names for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.”

    The Thums Up Fan Pulse offers various content formats, from episodic series with Disney+ Hotstar to byte-sized content. By sparking engaging conversations about the ICC World Cup, it keeps the excitement alive. Thums Up remains dedicated to enhancing cricket conversations and uniting fans through innovation. Consumers can purchase a Thums Up, scan the QR code on the pack and express their views to become a part of Thums Up Fan Pulse. 

  • Sehwag and Gambhir to captain Gujarat Giants and India Capitals in Legends League Cricket

    Sehwag and Gambhir to captain Gujarat Giants and India Capitals in Legends League Cricket

    Mumbai: Legends League Cricket franchise teams on Thursday announced the names of their captains. Former India opener Virender Sehwag has been named to lead the Adani-owned Gujarat Giants, while Gautam Gambhir, who was also Sehwag’s opening partner in the Indian team, will be the skipper of the GMR Sportsline-owned India Capitals.

    The upcoming edition of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) will be a four-team tournament and a 16-match affair. It will be played for the first time in India and will be hosted in six different cities. The league will start from 16 September 2022 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by Lucknow, New Delhi, Cuttack, and Jodhpur. The venues for the play-offs and finals are yet to be decided.

    Speaking on the selection, Sehwag commented, “I am excited to get back to the cricket ground again. Having Adani Group as a team principal and a professional outfit like Gujarat Giants is a perfect way to kick start this cricketing inning once again. I have personally always believed in playing fearless cricket, and I will continue to propagate the same brand of cricket here too. We are extremely excited and eagerly waiting for the drift to pick our team.”

    Gambhir said, “I have always believed cricket is a team game and a captain is as good as his team. While I will be leading the India Capitals team, I will be pushing for a spirited team who are passionate and eager to go out and win as a team. I wish Legends League Cricket all the very best and am looking forward to the upcoming action.”

    Legends League Cricket CEO and co-founder Raman Raheja added, “Having such heavyweight names as captains for the franchises is a testament that our teams will go all out under the leadership of these batting greats, as they are currently preparing to pick their choice of cricketers to go with.”

  • Redcliffe Labs onboards Gautam Gambhir as brand ambassador

    Redcliffe Labs onboards Gautam Gambhir as brand ambassador

    Mumbai: Redcliffe Labs, also known as Redcliffe Life Diagnostics has announced Gautam Gambhir as its national brand ambassador to promote the access and right to good health amongst all Indians.

    “Gambhir is among the most-admired Indian cricketers and is an embodiment of good health. Thus, he would be the perfect harbinger to make people aware of the role of regular diagnostics in ensuring good health,” said the brand on Monday.

    Redcliffe Labs founder Dheeraj Jain said the company is delivering on its mission by doing home sample collection from our collection centers, online consultation, building labs across India that are digital-first. “With Gautam as part of the team, we intend to educate people about the benefits of getting regular health checkups and how such check-ups cover almost a hundred tests that can help prevent fatal diseases if diagnosed in time,” he added.

    “The second wave of the pandemic has been an eye-opener and now it is time to change completely towards preventive health,” said Gambhir elaborating on the association. “Redcliffe’s core focus is to build on this and provide routine health test packages to all fellow Indians no matter what. It is set to make real disruption and I am with them to reach every possible pin code of Bharat and give real access to healthcare and diagnostics.”

  • Ferozeshah Kotla to be renamed as Arun Jaitley Stadium

    Ferozeshah Kotla to be renamed as Arun Jaitley Stadium

    MUMBAI: In a fitting tribute to its former president Arun Jaitley, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has decided to name the Stadium after him. DDCA President Rajat Sharma said Stadium will be called Arun Jaitely Stadium. Ground will remain as Ferozeshah Kotla Ground. Mr Jaitley, who passed away on August 24, was president of the DDCA from 1999 to 2013.

    The renaming of Delhi’s famous cricket venue as Arun Jaitley Stadium will take place on September 12 at a function where a Stand of the Kotla ground will be named after India captain Virat Kohli as announced earlier.

    Speaking on this initiative, DDCA president Rajat Sharma said: "What can be better to have the stadium named after the man who got it rebuilt under his presidentship. It was Arun Jaitley’s support and encouragement that players like Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Ashish Nehra, Rishabh Pant and many others could make India proud."

    Mr Jaitley, during his tenure at the Kotla, is credited with renovating this stadium into a modern infrastructure, increasing it capacity to help more fans get an opportunity to watch their favourite cricketers in action besides constructing world class dressing rooms and other cricketing facilities

    The function, to be held at the Weightlifting Auditorium, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, will be graced by the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the chief guest, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju, the guest of honour.