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IIE DIGITAL DESK : The what appears to be a last-minute twist ahead of India's upcoming Test series against England, reports suggest that a prominent Indian cricketer, reportedly backed by former opener and mentor Gautam Gambhir, has been asked to remain with the squad even after the conclusion of the recent intra-squad practice game. This move has triggered speculation that selectors may be reconsidering their initial decisions and contemplating a surprise inclusion in the final Test squad.

The identity of the player has not been officially disclosed, but sources close to the development indicate that the cricketer impressed significantly during the intra-squad match held as part of Team India’s preparatory camp. The player in question had initially been left out of the main Test squad but was among the reserves or standby players training with the team.

What has added further intrigue to the situation is the reported backing of Gautam Gambhir, a key figure in the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) setup and currently in line for the role of India’s next head coach. Gambhir, known for his bold and unconventional choices, is believed to have strongly advocated for this player’s potential, especially in red-ball cricket conditions expected in England.

A senior BCCI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “The team management has been asked to keep all options open. Some of the players in the reserves performed exceptionally well in the intra-squad match. One of them may very well earn a call-up based on current form and match fitness.”

The intra-squad game, held in a controlled setting to replicate English conditions, saw notable performances from both established Test players and fringe candidates. Selectors, along with the team’s coaching staff, were present to observe closely as part of a dynamic selection process ahead of the first Test.

While the official Test squad had been announced weeks ago, the evolving form of players in training and match simulations seems to have prompted the selectors to leave room for late adjustments. The situation is reminiscent of past instances where impressive domestic or net performances led to last-minute inclusions in the playing XI or the squad itself.

This development has also reignited conversations around India's strategy for the England series, especially in the batting department. The team has been dealing with concerns over the consistency of the middle order and the adaptability of certain players in swinging conditions. In such a scenario, the retention of an in-form, hungry player—particularly one with technical grit and temperament suited for overseas Tests—could be a game-changing decision.

Cricket pundits are divided on the possible move. Some welcome the flexibility, praising the selection committee for valuing current form over reputation, while others have raised concerns about the impact on team stability and morale.

Social media too has been buzzing, with fans speculating on who the mystery player might be. Names like Abhimanyu Easwaran, Rajat Patidar, and even young prodigy Rinku Singh—whom Gambhir has publicly endorsed in the past—are being thrown around as potential contenders.

The BCCI has not made any official announcement regarding changes to the squad. However, the fact that the player has not been released or sent back after the intra-squad match suggests that discussions are underway, and a final call may be made before the team departs for the England leg of the series.

With the first Test scheduled to begin in a few weeks, all eyes are now on the team management and selectors. Whether this intra-squad performance indeed leads to a selection U-turn remains to be seen, but it has certainly added a layer of drama and anticipation to what is already a high-stakes series between two traditional cricketing rivals.