Sat Jun 14 10:08:52 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**India’s Preparation for England Series Begins Amidst Personal Tragedy and On-Field Action**
**Beckenham, Kent –** India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against England commenced with an intra-squad practice match between the senior India team and India A at Beckenham, Kent. However, the day was overshadowed by the sudden cardiac arrest suffered by head coach Gautam Gambhir’s mother, forcing him to return to India. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate stepped in to oversee the session in his absence.
On the field, key players including Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah participated in the match, played behind closed doors. According to the BCCI, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul both scored half-centuries, indicating strong form ahead of the series. Shardul Thakur also impressed, taking wickets during the match.
The players observed a moment of silence before the start of play to honour the victims of the recent Ahmedabad plane crash tragedy.
Day 2 of the practice match is underway.
First Piper 