India’s Shubman Gill hospitalised after sudden neck spasm in Kolkata

India captain Shubman Gill was admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata on Saturday after a sudden neck spasm forced him to retire hurt during the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens.

According to reports, Gill was taken to the hospital designated for the ongoing series after team doctors advised immediate scans. He was stretchered out of the stadium at the end of the second day, wearing a neck brace and accompanied by the team doctor and a security officer.

Medical staff expect Gill to stay overnight for observation, with further tests planned to assess the severity of the injury.

Injury occurred after sweep shot

The incident took place in the first session when Gill swept off-spinner Simon Harmer for four on the fifth ball of the 35th over. While the shot drew praise, Gill straightened up and instantly clutched the left side of his neck in clear discomfort.

Team physio attended to him on the field, but the skipper struggled to move his neck freely. He soon walked off, retiring hurt for four off three deliveries. He did not return for the remainder of the day, with vice-captain Rishabh Pant stepping in as stand-in captain.

Broadcast visuals later showed Gill performing neck-loosening exercises before play began on the second morning, suggesting the issue may have surfaced earlier. He appeared in visible pain during those drills.

BCCI monitoring availability

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said Gill remains under medical observation and that a decision on his participation in the match will depend on further assessments. His availability for the rest of the Test remains uncertain.

Gill’s father, Lakhwinder Gill, who is in the city for the match, has remained by his side.

'No link to workload'

India bowling coach Morne Morkel dismissed suggestions that Gill’s recent heavy workload contributed to the injury.

“We first need to determine how he got the neck stiffness. Maybe it was just a bad night’s sleep,” he said.

“Shubman is very fit and looks after himself extremely well. It was unfortunate that he woke up with a stiff neck, and it affected a crucial stage of the match. Another partnership from him would have been important,” said Morkel in the post-day press conference.