In a candid conversation with Virat Kohli on BCCI TV, Gautam Gambhir, now India’s head coach, reflected on one of the most memorable innings of his career—his match-saving 137 during the 2009 Test against New Zealand in Napier. Gambhir shared how spiritual practices played a pivotal role in his focus and endurance during that crucial knock.

Gambhir’s unwavering focus in napier

With India on the brink of defeat, Gambhir batted for over two days, facing 436 balls in a marathon innings to help India salvage a draw. Reflecting on his performance, Gambhir revealed the secret to his immense concentration: the Hanuman Chalisa.

“If I look back, I don’t think I could ever bat for two and a half days again. But during that time, the only thing I did was listen to the Hanuman Chalisa,” Gambhir said. He explained how chanting the devotional hymn helped him enter a deep state of focus, describing it as a “divine zone” that very few athletes experience during their careers.

Kohli’s mantra in Australia

Gambhir also drew parallels with Kohli’s mental preparation during his defining series in Australia in 2014. Kohli, who had faced immense pressure during that tour, had previously shared that he chanted “Om Namah Shivay” before every delivery to maintain his focus.

“You kept telling me you were saying ‘Om Namah Shivay’ before every delivery, and that got you into the zone. For me, it was the same with the Hanuman Chalisa in Napier,” Gambhir mentioned during their chat.

The ‘Divine Zone’

During his innings in Napier, Gambhir’s level of concentration was so intense that even his teammate VVS Laxman noted Gambhir had not spoken for two hours, even during the breaks between overs. Reflecting on this, Gambhir explained that being “in the zone” is a rare and almost otherworldly experience in a cricketer’s career.

power of mental fortitude

Gambhir’s gritty innings stands as a testament to the importance of mental fortitude and spiritual focus in cricket. His ability to stay calm and focused, coupled with his spiritual practices, not only saved the match but also left a lasting impression on Indian cricket. Similarly, Kohli’s reliance on his mantra during his breakout series highlights how spirituality and mental discipline can shape a cricketer’s success on the field.