Gambhir’s Heated Exchange with Oval Groundsman Lee Fortis Sparks Controversy

Key Points:

Just days before the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, a heated confrontation erupted between India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, and the ground’s head curator, Lee Fortis. On July 29, 2025, The Oval became the stage for this tense exchange during Team India’s first training session ahead of the fifth Test against England. The incident highlighted ongoing friction between Fortis and visiting teams, adding another chapter to his controversial tenure at Surrey’s historic venue.

Fortis, known for being highly protective of the Oval’s pitches, reportedly shouted at the Indian support staff for placing a cooling box too close to the pitch. Video footage captured an irate Gambhir pointing his finger at Fortis and saying, “You don’t tell us what we need to do… go complain to whoever you want.” The argument escalated when Fortis allegedly threatened to report Gambhir to the match referee for using the F word.

India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, later explained the situation, saying, “It’s fine to be protective about the pitch, but this was over the top. We weren’t doing anything wrong—just inspecting the wicket while wearing joggers. The way he shouted at our staff wasn’t right, and Gambhir stepped in to defend them.” Kotak added that the team was even asked to stay 2.5 meters away from the pitch during inspection, which felt unnecessary and awkward.

“Most of the team knows that the curator is not the easiest person to get on with. So, that gives a lot of answers. When you’re working with very intelligent and highly skilled people, if you sound a bit arrogant or if you come across like … you can be protective. At the end of the day, it is a cricket pitch. It is not an antique that you can’t touch.” Kotak said.

This is reportedly not the first time Fortis has had tense run-ins with visiting teams, as he is known for enforcing strict rules around the pitch. Fans on social media were quick to point out inconsistencies, sharing photos of England’s coach Brendon McCullum standing on the pitch with Fortis before the 2023 Ashes finale.

Kotak summed up the incident by saying, “It was very normal. Then he came there, and he was saying, I think it got built up from the wicket when we were watching. And to be very, very honest, if you want me to be very honest, before coming to The Oval, most of the team knows that the curator is not the easiest person to get on with. And I am sure you also would be aware of it. So, that gives a lot of answers. No, I do not think there is any point in complaining.”

With England leading the series 2-1 and tensions already running high after the controversial ending of the fourth Test, this latest drama only adds fuel to the fire. The final Test at The Oval is shaping up to be a battle not just on the field but also off it, with tempers flaring even before the first ball is bowled. [Rh/VP]

Also Read: