Gambhir, Curator Clash Fuels India-England Test Tensions

A heated clash occurred between India's head coach Gautam Gambhir and Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis before the fifth and final Test against England, after Fortis asked the Indian staff to maintain a 2.5-metre distance from the pitch. Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak objected, considering the request unnecessary as the staff wore non-damaging footwear. Gambhir's outburst, captured on video, sparked broader debates in the media, with Irfan Pathan defending him and alleging double standards since England’s coach reportedly received closer access. Fortis, known for his strictness, downplayed the incident and opted not to file a formal complaint. While the ICC could potentially intervene if a report is made, the issue appears resolved for now. The altercation has intensified scrutiny of conduct and pitch protocols in a high-stakes series.