Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has returned to India to attend to his ailing mother, who suffered a heart attack earlier this week. Gambhir, who was in England with the Indian squad preparing for their upcoming five-match Test series, left for New Delhi due to this family emergency. His mother is currently receiving treatment at Gangaram Hospital in the capital and is believed to be in the ICU.
While her condition remains uncertain, doctors are reportedly optimistic about her recovery. Sources close to Gambhir have indicated that he may rejoin the Indian team before the first Test in Leeds, scheduled to begin on June 20, depending on his mother’s health.
IND vs ENG 2025 Tests: Impact on Team India’s Preparations
In Gambhir’s absence, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, along with bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, will oversee the team’s preparations. The Indian squad is currently engaged in a four-day intra-squad warm-up match in Beckenham, Kent, which will help determine the final playing XI for the first Test. Gambhir’s return to India comes at a crucial time for the Indian team, as they embark on a new era under the leadership of Shubman Gill.
With the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the team is undergoing a transition, and Gambhir’s presence was expected to play a key role in shaping the squad’s strategy. However, his sudden departure has left the coaching staff with additional responsibilities in finalizing the team’s composition.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his return, Gambhir’s commitment to his family has been widely respected. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has extended its support, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation and expressing hope for his mother’s recovery.
While Gambhir’s absence may impact the team’s immediate preparations, his coaching philosophy and strategic inputs have already been instilled in the squad. If his mother’s condition stabilizes, he is expected to rejoin the team before the first Test, ensuring that India enters the series with a well-prepared unit.
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Team India’s Schedule for the England Test Series 2025
India will play a five-match Test series against England, starting on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. Here is the complete schedule:
- First Test: June 20-24 at Headingley, Leeds
- Second Test: July 2-6 at Edgbaston, Birmingham
- Third Test: July 10-14 at Lord’s, London
- Fourth Test: July 23-27 at Old Trafford, Manchester
- Fifth Test: July 31-August 4 at The Oval, London
India will look to make a strong start in the series and adapt to the challenging English conditions. If Gambhir rejoins the team soon, his presence could help shape India’s strategy for the crucial matches ahead.
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