Tensions flared at The Oval on Tuesday when India head coach Gautam Gambhir was involved in a heated exchange with the venue’s chief curator, Lee Fortis, just two days before the fifth and final Test against England. The incident occurred during India’s optional training session and was captured on video, clips of which have since gone viral on social media.
According to PTI, Gambhir was heard angrily telling Fortis, “You don’t tell us what we need to do,” while pointing fingers at the groundstaff. Although the exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear, reports suggest the dispute may have been related to the conditions of the practice pitches prepared for India’s net session.
The altercation unfolded while players were marking their run-up areas, prompting batting coach Sitanshu Kotak to step in and diffuse the situation.
Kotak was seen escorting Fortis to a corner of the practice area for a private discussion, after which both parties went their separate ways. Gambhir soon returned to overseeing the training session, maintaining a watchful eye on preparations.
India arrived in London on Monday following their spirited draw in the fourth Test at Manchester, where they defied the odds to stay alive in the five-match series, currently standing at 2-1 in England’s favour.
Sai Sudharsan, who impressed with a gritty half-century in the Manchester Test, was the first to arrive at the ground for practice. He was later joined by left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who was seen working hard in the nets as India fine-tuned its plans for the all-important clash.
The fifth Test, set to begin on Thursday at The Oval, carries enormous stakes for the visitors, who must win to level the series and cap off a dramatic fightback.
