Controversy Erupts Ahead of Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025

As the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 approaches, a controversy has erupted involving Gautam Gambhir and groundsman Lee Fortis. The incident highlights perceived double standards in treatment between the Indian team and their English counterparts. With Gambhir confronting Fortis over restrictions placed on the Indian support staff, questions are being raised about the fairness of such treatment. This situation has sparked broader discussions about how visiting teams, particularly from the subcontinent, are treated in England. As the match date nears, the focus is shifting from cricket to controversy, raising concerns about the implications for the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2025, 13:37 IST

Disparities in Treatment?

A significant controversy has emerged as the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 approaches at The Oval in London. Former Indian cricketer and current coach Gautam Gambhir has had a confrontation with head groundsman Lee Fortis, leading to accusations of 'double standards.'

Comparisons to Past Incidents

This incident has drawn parallels to a moment during the 2023 Ashes series, where England's head coach Brendon McCullum was seen casually inspecting the pitch alongside Fortis just 48 hours before a match, without any objections.

Indian Team's Experience

However, the treatment of the Indian team in 2025 has been markedly different. Reports indicate that Fortis reprimanded Indian support staff for bringing a small icebox near the nets, despite it being lightweight and not close to the main pitch. Additionally, Indian coaches were instructed to maintain a distance of 2.5 meters from the pitch during inspections.

Kotak's Concerns

Sitanshu Kotak, India's batting coach, voiced his concerns regarding the situation. He noted that the staff were wearing joggers instead of spike shoes, minimizing any risk of pitch damage. Kotak stated, "Inspecting the pitch with rubber soles shouldn't pose an issue. We respect the curators, but they should also acknowledge the expertise coaches bring."

Gambhir's Outburst

Gautam Gambhir, known for his assertiveness, reportedly confronted Fortis, expressing his frustration with statements like, "You can't dictate our actions," and, "You're just the groundsman, nothing more." Videos capturing this heated exchange have circulated widely.

Fortis's Reaction

In response, Lee Fortis mentioned he would report Gambhir to the match referee, dismissing the incident as Gambhir being 'a bit touchy' and refraining from elaborating further.

Broader Implications

This incident has ignited discussions about the treatment of visiting teams, particularly those from the subcontinent, in England. Many fans and former players are questioning the disparity in treatment, noting that McCullum was allowed to inspect the pitch closely in 2023, while Indian coaches faced reprimands for much less.

Shifting Focus

As the match date approaches, the attention is shifting from the game itself to the surrounding controversy, which is something the sport could certainly do without.