Just days before the start of the India vs England five-match Test series, Team India’s preparations have been hit by a major emotional setback. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has returned to India due to a family emergency. According to reports, Gambhir’s mother has suffered a heart attack and is currently in the ICU, prompting the coach to immediately leave the team’s camp in England.
The former opener, who was recently appointed as India’s head coach for the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle, had been actively involved in shaping the new-look Test side. He delivered a rousing address to the squad just before his departure, urging them to carry forward the legacy of players like Kohli and Rohit while forging their own identity.
With assistant coach Abhishek Nayar already out—his BCCI contract terminated recently—bowling coach Morne Morkel is expected to take over coaching responsibilities during this phase. Morkel is already overseeing the ongoing intra-squad warm-up match in Beckenham, where he has emphasized character and discipline in bowler-friendly conditions.
India begins their Test series against England on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, and Gambhir’s return date remains uncertain at this point.
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