Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, is set to rejoin the squad in England on June 17, ahead of the first Test match against England, scheduled to begin on June 20 in Headingley, Leeds. This decision comes despite his mother remaining in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on June 11.
Gambhir had initially traveled with the team to England to oversee preparations for the five-match Test series. However, he had to rush back to India on June 12 after receiving news of his mother's health emergency. In his absence, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, along with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, and bowling coach Morne Morkel, took charge of the team's training and preparations. They supervised a four-day intra-squad match between India and India A in Beckenham, which concluded on June 15. BCCI Centre of Excellence chief VVS Laxman was also present with the team.
According to reports, Gambhir's mother's condition is now stable, although she remains under close observation in the ICU. After consulting with medical professionals and learning of his mother's improved condition, Gambhir decided to return to England to rejoin the Indian team. He is expected to arrive in London on June 17 and then travel with the squad to Headingley. Tuesday will primarily be a travel day, and the team is expected to have extensive net sessions on the two days leading up to the first Test.
Gambhir's decision to prioritize his commitment to the Indian team, even during a personal crisis, has been lauded as an example of his dedication and professionalism. Sources close to Gambhir have emphasized his unwavering commitment to national duty, a trait he displayed throughout his playing career. His presence in the dressing room is considered crucial as the team embarks on what is expected to be a challenging Test series against England.
The five-match Test series is a significant event in the cricket calendar, marking the beginning of the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2025-2027. The series will be played across several iconic English cricket grounds:
The Indian squad is led by newly appointed captain Shubman Gill, with Rishabh Pant serving as the vice-captain. The team is aiming to secure their first Test series win in England since 2007.
