Shubman Gill sidelined due to neck injury
Indian batsman Shubman Gill has been excluded from the second Test match against South Africa in Guwahati following medical advice for a neck injury. This injury, which occurred during the first Test in Kolkata, has forced him to be under observation and later seek further assessment in Mumbai, as per the BCCI’s formal communication. Gill travelled to Guwahati on November 19 after spending time under observation in a Kolkata hospital, and the BCCI said on Friday morning he “will head to Mumbai for further assessment.”
Rishabh Pant to lead in Gill’s absence
With Gill out of action, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will assume leadership duties for the Indian team. He stepped into a similar role in the Kolkata Test after Gill’s departure. Sitanshu Kotak, India’s batting coach, emphasized the importance of prioritizing Gill’s health, indicating that playing him could risk aggravating his condition, thus impacting his inclusion in upcoming series.
Potential implications for India’s lineup
The absence of Gill leaves India with a decision on whether B Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, or Nitish Kumar Reddy will replace him in the lineup. The selection for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa will also be influenced by Gill’s recovery process; the ODI squad is expected to be picked on November 23.
Gill previously withdrew from a Test against New Zealand in 2024 for a similar neck issue, underlining the need for cautious management. He was admitted to hospital after the second day of the Kolkata Test and had retired hurt after facing only three balls; on the morning of the third day the BCCI said he would take no further part in the Test. India lost the Kolkata Test by 30 runs after being dismissed for 93 in a chase of 124 on a pitch with uneven bounce.
For a detailed match schedule and updates, visit ESPNcricinfo’s South Africa tour of India page.
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