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A recent verbal altercation between Indian coach Gautam Gambhir and Oval pitch curator Lee Fortis has drawn commentary from former Australian opener Matthew Hayden. The dispute reportedly occurred ahead of the final Test match between India and England, where Gambhir and Fortis were seen in a heated exchange. During the argument, Gambhir allegedly belittled Fortis's role as 'just a groundsman' and used several expletives.
Matthew Hayden has his say on Gautam Gambhir vs Oval curator debate
Providing context to the incident, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kothak explained that Gambhir's outburst was a reaction to Fortis's own behavior. Kothak revealed that the curator had been confrontational with the Indian team management, demanding they stay away from the pitch and shouting at the support staff. This prior interaction is said to have provoked Gambhir's strong response.
Weighing in on the feud, Matthew Hayden offered a balanced perspective. While speaking on a podcast, he criticised the level of authority Fortis seemed to command at the venue. Although Hayden suggested that Gambhir could have chosen his words more carefully, he also expressed understanding for the Indian coach's position, acknowledging the immense pressure of preparing for a high-stakes match.
“This is a typical case in England. It is a bit of a flex, here we are, final Test match, this is my venue, and they are going to try and make it difficult on Gautam Gambhir. But I think he’s got every right to tone it down. He could have used better language. But the reality is, his team is trying to train ahead of the most important Test match,” said Hayden.
Echoing the sentiments of his fellow countryman, former cricketer Greg Blewett also weighed in, stating that Gautam Gambhir could have handled the situation with more tact and composure. Despite the intense spat dominating headlines in the lead-up to the series finale, the on-field contest quickly captured everyone's attention. The pitch prepared by Lee Fortis, the center of the controversy, ultimately produced a classic Test match with ample assistance for the bowlers, leading to a thrilling, low-scoring affair. India clinched a memorable victory by a narrow margin of just six runs, a result that ironically transformed Fortis from a perceived villain into an unlikely hero for the jubilant Indian fans.
“I agree. Even now, even as a commentator, you get near the pitch and everyone is saying you can’t get anywhere near it and you’re like I haven’t got spikes on. It is quite ridiculous. I get the frustration. But I agree that the language that he used wasn’t great. If he reflects, he could have probably handled it a little better,” said Blewett.
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