Here’s what happened between #Gautam gambhir and Clown pitch curator Lee Fortis.
• India was scheduled for an optional practice at 9:30 a.m. UK time at The Oval.
• Brendon McCullum and Rob Key inspected the wicket without issues. They were allowed to step on the pitch and do whatever they wanted to.
• Then the Indian coaching staff, including Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak, approached the wicket.
• Lee Fortis asserted himself, telling the Indian staff they could not come within 2.5 meters of the pitch.
• This restriction led to a significant escalation.
• The 2.5 meters restriction was equated to about 8 feet, questioning how one could understand the wicket from such a distance.
• In contrast, during a rainy day in Manchester, Indian players and staff were allowed close to the pitch to assess it.
• Fortis's actions were seen as out of line, especially when compared to the treatment of other teams.
• The Indian team requested an ice box, but Fortis intervened again, preventing its placement near the pitch.
• The Indian staff were not wearing spikes and were in joggers, ensuring no damage to the pitch.
• The ice box, weighing 10 kilos, was deemed less impactful than a 100-kilo person on the pitch.
• Head Coach Gautam Gambhir reacted strongly to protect his team.
• Sitanshu Kotak described Fortis as "arrogant" in a press conference, indicating frustration.
• Kotak emphasized Gambhir's ethical stance and the need to speak up for his team.
• The incident highlighted a perceived double standard, as English staff faced no such restrictions.