In a surprising turn of events, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir rushed back to India on June 12, leaving the England tour midway due to a serious family emergency. His mother, Seema Gambhir, reportedly suffered a heart attack on June 11 and has been hospitalized in the ICU of a Delhi hospital.

Gambhir traveled with the squad to England to prepare for the historic five-match Test series against England, set to begin June 20 under new captain Shubman Gill. He was present for initial preparations, including a closed-door intra-squad match, but flew home just ahead of the session on June 13. In his absence, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel, along with India A staff, will take over the duties .

Team management anticipates Gambhir will rejoin by June 17, just days before the series opener in Headingley. His return offers some reassurance as squad navigates this transition and a pivotal tour.