Will Gautam Gambhir Return In Time For IND vs ENG Test Series?

Indian men’s cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir will rejoin the squad in Leeds on June 17. This is just three days before the first Test match against England. He had flown back to Delhi last week due to a family emergency. Gautam Gambhir mother had suffered a cardiac arrest and was admitted to the hospital.

It was a tense moment for Gambhir's family, and he had to leave an important tour to be with his mother. It raised speculations of Gambhir's availability for the first Test against England at Leeds, Headingley. Now, India have received a big boost ahead of the opening match.

Situation of Gautam Gambhir Mother

The condition of Gautam Gambhir mother is now stable. This has allowed Gambhir to return to the team in time for the opening match. The Indian team has been in England for more than a week. They are preparing for a five-match Test series against England. This will be their first Test series under new captain Shubman Gill. He took over after Rohit Sharma stepped down from the role after announcing retirement from the format. It is a big opportunity for the young opener to prove himself as a leader.
During Gambhir’s absence, the team continued its preparations under other coaches. Assistant coaches Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak were in charge. Bowling coach Morne Morkel and India A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar also helped the players train. Together, they made sure the team stayed focused and match-ready for the IND vs ENG first Test.

India's Stellar Performances in Practice Matches

To get used to the English conditions, a practice match was held. It was a three-day intra-squad game between India and India A. The game took place in Beckenham and was played behind closed doors. This match helped players experience real game situations and test their skills. It also gave the coaching staff a good chance to see who is in form.
Gautam Gambhir’s return will now be important. He will help finalise the playing XI for the first Test. His experience and leadership will guide the team in these important decisions.
India faces some tough choices when it comes to team selection. One big decision is whether to include Karun Nair in the playing XI. Nair has impressed everyone with his recent form. He scored a double century for India A and looks in great touch. He has also played Test cricket before and brings experience to the middle order.

At the same time, young Sai Sudharsan is also being considered. He has done well in domestic cricket and could be given a Test debut. The team management will need to decide between experience and fresh talent. The final call is expected to be made after the upcoming net sessions in Leeds.
Another interesting development is the presence of VVS Laxman.

The former Indian cricketer has been seen with the team in London. However, the BCCI has not given him any official role for this tour. Laxman is currently the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Even without an official position, his presence could help the team, especially the younger players. His experience and calm nature could be valuable during a big series like this.

When Will the 1st IND vs ENG Test 2025 Take Place?

India will travel from London to Leeds on June 17. June 16 has been kept as a rest day. There will be no training on that day. Once in Leeds, the team will have two full days of practice on June 18 and 19. These net sessions will be intense and focused. Players will use this time to adjust to the pitch and weather conditions.
The first IND vs ENG Test 2025 will begin on June 20 at Leeds, Headingley. It marks the start of an important series for both teams. With new leadership and some fresh faces, India will be looking to make a strong start. The Men in Blue will be without the stalwarts, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin for this series as they have retired from the format.