The source indicated that Gambhir needed to fly back to attend to his mother, who has been hospitalized in New Delhi due to health issues. Meanwhile, the Shubman Gill-led Indian Test squad is in the UK, preparing for a five-match series against England starting on June 20 in Leeds.
“Yes. He’s gone back (to India) for a family emergency,” the source confirmed.
In Gambhir’s absence, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate will take charge of the team during the four-day intra-squad match between India and India A, which begins on Friday.
He will receive support from the coaching staff, including bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.
If things go well at home, Gambhir is expected to return to England within a week.
The newly appointed captain Shubman Gill will lead a reshaped Indian side, heralding a new chapter after the recent retirements of key players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Several Indian players have already arrived in England as part of the India A squad, currently involved in a three-match unofficial Test series against the England Lions.
“It’s great to be part of the Indian cricket team, especially during a Test series. Welcome to the UK,” said newcomer Sai Sudharsan in a video shared by the BCCI on ‘X’.
The first Test is set to commence in Leeds on June 20, followed by matches in Birmingham (July 2–6), Lord’s (July 10–14), Manchester (July 23–27), and The Oval (August 4–8).
(With PTI inputs)
