India Coach Gambhir Expected to Rejoin Squad in Leeds Before England Test

Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, is set to rejoin the Indian Test squad in Leeds ahead of the five-match series against England starting at Headingley on June 20, following a family emergency that required him to return to India. His mother’s health has reportedly improved, allowing Gambhir to resume his duties in time for the critical series, which marks a new chapter with Shubman Gill leading as captain after the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. In Gambhir’s absence, the team prepared under assistant coaches and conducted a behind-closed-doors warm-up match, with VVS Laxman present but holding no official coaching role. The coaching staff faces key decisions about the playing XI, including managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload, who will play only three of the five Tests, and selecting replacements for the retired batsmen, with contenders such as B Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair emerging. The team is focused on building confidence and match fitness after a period dominated by T20 cricket, aiming to perform strongly in this demanding Test series. Gambhir’s return is expected to stabilize the team’s leadership and strategy as they prepare to face England in a highly anticipated contest.