India’s Shubman Gill to miss 2nd Test due to neck injury

Dubai: Team India captain Shubman Gill will miss the second Test against South Africa, scheduled to begin in Guwahati on Saturday. Gill has not recovered from the neck injury he sustained during the first Test in Kolkata, and vice-captain Rishabh Pant will take over the leadership duties for the upcoming match.

Medical assessments revealed that an early return could worsen Gill’s neck spasms, prompting the team management to extend his rest period. This setback may also affect his prospects of making the ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa starting November 30, with selections set to be announced on November 23.

Gill’s absence opens the door for one among Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, or Nitish Kumar Reddy to be drafted into the side.

During the Kolkata Test, Gill retired hurt after facing just three deliveries in India’s first innings and was later taken to the hospital on day two. The following morning, the BCCI confirmed he would take no further part in the match. On November 19, the board stated that Gill would continue to be monitored by its medical team, with a decision on his availability for the second Test to follow.

In the series opener, South Africa defeated India by 30 runs after India fell short of a 124-run target in the fourth innings. The match concluded within three days, with both batting units struggling on a challenging surface. Temba Bavuma was the only batter to register a half-century.

The victory marked South Africa’s first Test win on Indian soil since 2010. Spinner Simon Harmer was named Player of the Match for his outstanding eight-wicket haul across both innings.