During India’s practice at The Oval on Tuesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir had a heated discussion with pitch curator Lee Fortis about the practice conditions before the last Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
After a few words were exchanged, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak intervened, leading Lee away for a chat.
Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel defended Gambhir, saying the curator’s reaction seemed to stem from annoyance. I don’t think Gautam Gambhir was wrong. The way the pitch curator acted showed annoyance. Maybe England thought they’d sweep the series 5-0, but that’s not happening. So, we’re seeing the annoyance, he told ANI.
Lee declined to comment to reporters about what happened, saying, It’s not my job to be happy with him. I don’t know, you have to ask him.
Kotak and other members of the Indian staff explained the situation to an English official, with Kotak doing most of the talking.
This incident reflects the heightened emotions that have been present in the last two Tests in London and Manchester. The tension was apparent during the third Test at Lord’s when tempers flared.
The final Test of this intense series starts on Thursday. England, who were favored at the start, have been surprised by India’s comeback after an initial loss.
Gambhir, known for his passion, has always supported his team, both as a player and now as a coach. With England leading the series 2-1, both teams are aiming for a strong finish, but the disagreement at The Oval adds more intensity to the final game.