Gautam Gambhir Returns to India Amid Family Emergency Ahead of England Test Series

Gautam Gambhir's Sudden Departure

Head coach of Team India, Gautam Gambhir, had to leave the squad in Kent and head back home due to a family emergency on June 12. He was present with the team at Lord's and Kent, overseeing practice sessions in preparation for the five-match Test series against England, which kicks off on June 20.

Training Sessions and Emergency

India's first match against England is scheduled at Headingley, following a training session in Kent. Gambhir had been with the team since the beginning of their practice in England but had to return home unexpectedly due to personal reasons. He was absent from the practice session on June 12.

Family Health Concerns

While the exact reason for Gambhir's return remains unclear, reports from RevzSport indicate that his mother, Seema Gambhir, suffered a cardiac arrest and is currently hospitalized in Delhi. Upon learning of his mother's condition, Gambhir immediately flew back to be with his family.

Coaching Responsibilities Handed Over

Gambhir departed just before a four-day intra-squad match between India and India A at Kent Cricket Ground. Batting coach Sitangshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel will oversee the practice sessions in his absence. It is anticipated that Gambhir will rejoin the team before the first Test against England.

Team Dynamics and Upcoming Challenges

During his time with the squad, Gambhir welcomed new players Karun Nair, Arshdeep Singh, and Sai Sudharsan, emphasizing the need for unity and discipline. He prefers closed-door practices to prevent England from gaining insights into India's strategies ahead of the crucial Test series.

Significance of the England Test Series

The upcoming Test series against England is a significant challenge for Gambhir, especially as India navigates a transitional phase in red-ball cricket following the retirements of key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. With Shubman Gill as the new Test captain and Rishabh Pant as his deputy, Gambhir's role is pivotal in guiding this relatively young team.

Aiming for a Historic Comeback

After recent defeats against New Zealand and Australia, Team India, under Gambhir and Gill's leadership, is eager to make a strong comeback in England. This series marks the beginning of the new World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, and India aims to secure its first series win over England since 2007.