Gautam Gambhir in Heated Exchange with Oval Groundsman Ahead of Fifth Test

Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, was involved in a heated on-field altercation with The Oval's head groundsman, Lee Fortis, during the team's practice session ahead of the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a disagreement over the team's use of the practice square.

According to assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak, the tension started earlier in the morning when India's support staff went to inspect the match pitch. Fortis allegedly asked them to stay away from the pitch, which was seen as unusual. Gambhir was visibly agitated and wagged his finger at Fortis, who was seated on a roller, as the support staff wheeled a 'cooling box' onto the square.

Kotak defended Gambhir's actions, stating that he was standing up for his staff and that other visiting teams have faced similar issues at Surrey's ground. He also pointed out that Fortis is known to be a bit difficult to work with, which may have contributed to the tension.

The incident has sparked concerns over the usage of the practice square, with Fortis reportedly worried about the impact of the remaining cricket matches on the pitch. Kotak emphasized that the team is trying to be respectful of the ground and the curator's concerns, but also needs to be able to prepare for the match.

Key Quotes

• "Curators also need to understand that the people they are talking to, they are highly skilled and intelligent people." – Sitanshu Kotak
• "It's not an antique where you can't touch because otherwise it's 200 years old and it can be broken you know." – Sitanshu Kotak
• "You're just a groundsman, stay in your capacity. You're just a groundsman, nothing beyond that, you're just a groundsman. You're just the groundsman. Stay in your capacity." – Gautam Gambhir (allegedly)