Shubman GillCricket ControversiesCricket NewsIndia vs EnglandIndian Cricket NewsIndian Cricket PlayersIndian Cricket TeamIndian Cricket UpdatesIndian CricketersLatest Cricket UpdatesSports ControversyTest CricketTest Cricket UpdatesTest Match Updates
Shubman Gill Criticizes Oval Curator for Pitch Access Restriction Ahead of Final Test
India Skipper Labels Restriction “Absolutely Unnecessary” Ahead of Series Decider
India captain Shubman Gill has openly criticized Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis for restricting the Indian team’s support staff from closely inspecting the pitch ahead of the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Gill described the incident as “absolutely unnecessary,” sparking fresh debate just a day before the much-anticipated Test at The Oval.
The controversy stems from an altercation that occurred on Tuesday, July 29, when India head coach Gautam Gambhir reacted strongly to being asked to maintain a two-and-a-half-metre distance from the pitch. The incident reportedly included expletive-laden exchanges, souring the atmosphere in the lead-up to the crucial match.
Flashpoint Between Curator and Support Staff Raises Eyebrows
Curator’s Order Unprecedented, Says Gill
Gill, who was absent during Tuesday’s training but present the following day, was firm in his disapproval of the restriction. He emphasized that it was common practice for the captain and coaching staff to inspect the pitch up close, provided they adhered to basic protocols like wearing rubber spikes or going barefoot.
“We’ve been in England for nearly two months. This isn’t the first time we’ve looked at a wicket. A coach has every right to inspect it at close quarters,” said Gill.
Gill added that this was the only instance during the five-match Test series where such a directive was imposed. Other venues — Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, and Old Trafford — had no restrictions on square access or pitch inspections during practice sessions.
Read more: Gautam Gambhir’s evolving role in India’s coaching setup
No Pitch Access Issues at Other Venues
Coaches and Captains Deserve Pitch Access, Says Gill
The India skipper highlighted the discrepancy in treatment across venues. He pointed out that England’s team was allowed to inspect the pitch the same day during their morning session, further compounding India’s frustration.
“At no other ground were we asked to maintain distance. This is part of the game — every team does it,” said Gill. “We’ve done it for four matches in this series, and no one ever stopped us. So what changed at The Oval?”
India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had already voiced similar concerns earlier, asserting that the support staff had never experienced such limitations before.
Tensions High but Mutual Respect Prevails
Gambhir’s Reaction Not Due to Series Pressure: Gill
When asked if India’s trailing position in the series (1–2) and a poor recent Test record — just two wins in the last 12 Tests — played a part in Gambhir’s aggressive reaction, Gill denied the claim. He insisted the frustration stemmed purely from an unwarranted interference in routine preparations.
“This has nothing to do with pressure. If a pitch curator suddenly tells you not to inspect the wicket closely, it’s bound to raise questions,” Gill clarified.
Despite the tension, Gill maintained that relations between the two teams remain cordial.
“Both teams are trying to win, and in that heat of competition, emotions can flare. But once the match ends, there’s always mutual respect,” he concluded.
For background on pitch curation guidelines in international cricket, visit the MCC Laws of Cricket on Pitch Preparation.
