Former India pacer and current Champions League T10 commissioner Chetan Sharma has supported Gautam Gambhir amid the ongoing pitch controversy with Oval curator Lee Fortis. He also strongly backed the Indian team management’s decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the crucial fifth Test against England. The controversy erupted after a heated exchange between Gambhir and Fortis regarding access to inspect the pitch. This happened ahead of the series decider at Kennington Oval, London.
Gambhir’s Heated Exchange with Lee Fortis Over Pitch Access
The drama began when Gambhir was reportedly denied close access to inspect the practice wicket. Frustrated, he pointed fingers and exchanged heated words with Fortis. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stepped in to mediate the issue. He was later joined by assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. Together, they attempted to de-escalate the situation. Fortis, however, remained silent when questioned, saying, “It is not my job to be happy with him.”
Chetan Sharma downplayed the controversy. He expressed full confidence in the Indian support staff and their ability to manage internal issues. “They are very experienced coaches and that’s a good team management. They will handle it. No problem,” Sharma said in a statement to ANI.
Chetan Sharma: Resting Bumrah Is a Smart Long-Term Move
Sharma also addressed the ongoing debate around Jasprit Bumrah’s absence in the fifth Test. He made it clear that preserving Bumrah’s fitness is more important than pushing him for a single game. “We should not ruin Bumrah’s career. He needs a break. Everyone knew from Day 1 he was to play only three Tests,” he explained. He emphasized that the medical reports had been transparent and were shared with all stakeholders.
He also questioned the criticism around the decision to rest Bumrah. “I don’t know why there’s such a hue and cry about it. There shouldn’t be. He needs a break,” he added. Sharma pointed out that India had already proven their depth. The team managed to win the Test match where Bumrah wasn’t in the squad.
“As a cricketer, I’d rather see Bumrah fit and available for longer,” he said. “It’s better than seeing him play one more Test and then miss the next 6–8 months.” He stressed that the decision was not made lightly and that it involved thoughtful planning by the management.
Sharma concluded by backing the people making those calls. “The management and selectors are answerable. They know better than us. Whatever they are doing, they are doing it right,” he said.
On Friday, the BCCI officially released Bumrah from the squad. The board confirmed the move was aligned with pre-tour workload management. The final Test of the series is currently underway at Kennington Oval, London.
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