Gautam Gambhir, Oval Curator Lee Fortis in Heated Exchange Ahead of Fifth Test

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir was involved in a fiery on-field confrontation with The Oval's chief curator Lee Fortis on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, just two days before the start of the fifth and final Test between India and England. The disagreement appeared to stem from concerns regarding the conditions of the practice pitches provided to the Indian team.

Although the exact trigger for the altercation remains unclear, multiple sources and viral video clips from the training session indicate that Gambhir and Fortis exchanged harsh words during a tense moment near the practice wickets.

“YOU DON’T TELL US WHAT TO DO” – GAMBHIR TO FORTIS

In the video, Gambhir can be seen visibly upset, pointing fingers toward the ground staff while confronting Fortis. "You don't tell us what we need to do," the Indian coach said sternly, responding to the curator’s comments about pitch usage.

When Fortis reportedly warned Gambhir, "I will have to report this," the coach replied sharply, “You go and report whatever you want to report.” The situation threatened to escalate before India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stepped in to calm tempers. Kotak was seen taking Fortis aside and assuring him, "We won’t damage anything.”

INDIAN SUPPORT STAFF CLOSELY OBSERVE THE DISPUTE

Bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate were also present and appeared to be observing the unfolding situation with concern. The support staff refrained from intervening directly but remained close during the heated interaction.

As the argument died down, Gambhir returned to oversee the team’s net session, while Fortis walked away, muttering to a few bystanders, “It’s a big game, and he’s a bit touchy.”

HIGH STAKES AHEAD OF FINAL TEST

The Oval Test, beginning July 31, marks a crucial decider in the high-octane England-India series. India managed to claw back into the contest with a hard-fought draw in the fourth Test at Manchester, making the upcoming clash even more significant.

TEAM INDIA GEARS UP: SUDHARSAN, KULDEEP, AND ARSHDEEP IMPRESS IN NETS

Despite the drama, the Indian players remained focused on their preparation. Sai Sudharsan, who scored a half-century and a duck in the previous match, was the first to hit the nets. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav was seen putting in extensive effort during drills, while pacer Arshdeep Singh bowled with intensity under the supervision of Morkel.

With emotions running high and both teams eyeing series glory, all eyes will now turn to The Oval for what promises to be a thrilling finale.