Gautam Gambhir Likely to Rejoin Team India on June 17 Ahead of 1st Test

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir is likely to rejoin the team ahead of the first Test against England at Headingley. He had to fly back home because of a family emergency but is expected to be back in time for the series opener. The five-match Test series kicks off on June 20 with the first game to be played in Leeds.

As per a Cricbuzz report, Gautam Gambhir is likely to rejoin Team India just ahead of the opening Test. He had to rush back to India after his mother suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the ICU, according to reports on Saturday. A Dainik Jagran update mentioned that Gambhir is expected to fly to England on June 16 and will join the squad in Leeds a day later, on June 17.

Laxman Not Part of Official Support Staff, Confirms Report

A source close to Gautam Gambhir confirmed that he will rejoin the team before the first Test. “He will definitely rejoin the team before the first Test. He has consulted the doctors about his mother’s condition, which has improved although she continues to be in the ICU. But he will plan his return soon.” 

On Sunday, there were reports that VVS Laxman might take over as India’s temporary coach until Gautam Gambhir returns. Since Laxman is currently in the UK, it sparked speculation. However, a Cricbuzz report cleared the air, saying he’s not there on any official duty with the Indian team. “He’s gone for some other reason, not as part of the team’s support staff,” a source said.

One insider mentioned that while VVS Laxman might’ve had a few chats with the coaches and selectors, he doesn’t hold any official spot on the team. Another source added that he was actually in Switzerland for a conference and just made a quick London stopover as part of his travel plans.“The target is to win in England, and he may have spoken to the coaches and selectors present here, and perhaps even attended the intra-squad game. But he holds no official role with this team.”

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