Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has returned to India from England following a family emergency, just days ahead of the highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.
Sources confirm that Gambhir’s mother, Seema Gambhir, suffered a heart attack on June 11, prompting the coach to immediately leave the tour and return home. He is expected to rejoin the team on June 17, three days prior to the first Test.
This England tour marks a significant chapter in Indian cricket, as it is the first series following the retirement of senior legends Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. With Shubman Gill leading the team as the new Test captain, this series represents the dawn of a new era, with Gautam Gambhir playing a key role in shaping the future.
Gambhir had been actively involved in early preparations, including planning for a closed-door intra-squad warm-up game against India A starting June 13. The warm-up is designed to simulate 360 overs of match intensity to ensure players, particularly bowlers, are ready for the rigors of Test cricket.
Despite this temporary absence, the coaching staff continues with scheduled sessions. The BCCI has confirmed that Gambhir will resume full duties upon his return. The team remains focused and committed to making a strong start under the new leadership setup.