The Oval, London:
India’s preparations for the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval began on a tense note, as head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen in a heated exchange with Lee Fortis, the head groundsman of Surrey. The incident occurred during India’s optional training session on Tuesday, just two days before the start of the crucial series decider.
Disagreement Over Use of Practice Area:
According to sources close to the matter, the disagreement stemmed from India’s use of the main square during training. Groundsmen are typically sensitive about teams getting too close to the main pitch, especially ahead of a Test match. Fortis reportedly expressed concern over the number of Indian players and support staff present on the square, some of whom had ventured close to the pitch itself.
Fortis, who declined to reveal details when questioned by reporters, was apparently trying to enforce restrictions to preserve the surface, citing the extended cricket season at The Oval, which runs well into September. He was particularly wary about maintaining the quality of the main and adjacent pitches.
India’s Coaching Staff Felt the Restriction Was Excessive:
India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak shared his perspective on the incident, revealing that members of the Indian support staff were asked to stay at least 2.5 metres away from the pitch even though they were not wearing studded shoes.
“When some of us coaches went to see the wicket, a member of the groundstaff said stay away at least 2.5 metres, which was a little surprising,” Kotak said. “Because it is the pitch, the match is starting day after, it will be a five-day Test, and we’re standing in our joggers, so we felt a little awkward.”
Kotak did not comment directly on the confrontation between Gambhir and Fortis, but defended the Indian camp’s conduct, stating they were mindful not to damage the ground.
Gautam Gambhir has a heated argument with The Oval stadium’s pitch curator. 🤯 (Raysportz).pic.twitter.com/RbTyMGcDSV
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) July 29, 2025
Kotak Questions the Approach of the Groundsman:
Kotak suggested that the altercation may have escalated due to the tone in which the concerns were conveyed by Fortis. He explained that while curators are right to be protective of the pitch, they should also acknowledge the experience and professionalism of those on the field.
“Curators also need to understand the people they are talking to they are highly skilled and intelligent,” Kotak said. “If you sound a bit arrogant or if you come across like that… you can be protective, but at the end of the day it is a cricket pitch. It is not an antique where you can’t touch it.”
He added that the team took all necessary precautions, such as wearing rubber soles, and insisted no damage was done to the outfield or the square. “We try and see this ground also doesn’t get damaged,” he added. “You tell me, a day after a batsman will be sliding to survive a run-out, a bowler will be sliding to stop the ball. So how is that different from what we were doing?”
Also Read: Can India Fit Kuldeep Yadav Into Their Playing XI For The Final Test?
Final Test Set to Decide the Series:
The incident comes as India prepare for a must-win clash in the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The series currently stands at 2-1 in England’s favour. The match, beginning July 31 at The Oval, will determine whether India can square the series or if England will clinch a home victory.
Despite the friction during training, both teams are expected to approach the final Test with high intensity, with India likely to consider changes in their bowling attack and playing XI. The Oval has historically favoured both pace and spin, and pitch conditions will play a crucial role in selection.
As for the off-field controversy, neither side is expected to pursue the matter further. However, the exchange between Gambhir and Fortis has added an unexpected layer of drama to an already closely-fought series.
