In a sudden turn of events, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has returned home from England just days before the Test series against England. The five-match series is set to begin on June 20 at Headingley.
It will be Gambhir’s fourth Test assignment as coach but this time - his absence has shaken preparations. According to a Sportstar report, Gambhir’s departure was prompted by a medical emergency in the family.
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His mother - Seema Gambhir - suffered a cardiac arrest and is currently in the ICU in Delhi. The former opener landed in England with the Indian squad on June 7.
He left the camp on June 12 to be by her side.
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Who will take charge during Gautam Gambhir's absence?
With Gambhir not present since the June 12 net session, the team’s intra-squad match on June 13 in Leeds will go ahead under the supervision of assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. He will be supported by bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.
The practice game will be held behind closed doors and will not be broadcast or streamed.
Will Gautam Gambhir return before the first Test?
Gambhir’s return date is still unclear. However, multiple reports suggest he may be back around June 17 - provided his mother’s condition stabilises.
The situation remains sensitive and the team is said to be supportive of his decision to prioritise family. This tour is India’s first red-ball series since the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket.
Under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, the team is preparing to navigate the challenging English conditions with a new core. His temporary exit at such a critical stage is bound to test the team's depth and adaptability.