Kolkata: India's Test captain, Shubman Gill, has been discharged from the Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata, where he was under observation following a neck injury sustained during the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. However, doubts remain about his participation in the second Test, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Guwahati.
Gill, 26, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday after experiencing a neck spasm while batting on Day 2 of the ongoing Test match. The injury occurred when he attempted a sweep shot off South African spinner Simon Harmer, hitting the ball for a boundary but immediately clutching his neck in discomfort. He was attended to by the team physio and subsequently left the field.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a statement confirming that Gill would take no further part in the Kolkata Test and that he would remain under observation by the BCCI medical team. According to reports, Gill was initially admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as a precautionary measure. A medical board comprising specialists in critical care, neurology, neurosurgery, and cardiology was formed to monitor his condition closely.
Sources indicate that Gill's condition has improved, with his pain easing since Saturday night. MRI results have also revealed no major concerns. Gill was even seen watching the third day's play from his hospital bed.
Despite the positive updates, the question of Gill's availability for the second Test in Guwahati remains uncertain. The team management has emphasized that they will not take any risks with his fitness. India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, stated that the team's physios would evaluate Gill's condition, and a decision on his participation would be made accordingly.
"He (Gill) is still being assessed. So, let's see. The physios will take a call today evening, and we will take a call," Gambhir said.
Gill's absence would be a significant blow to the Indian team, both in terms of leadership and batting depth. In his absence, Vice-captain Rishabh Pant led the team for the remainder of the first Test. If Gill is unable to participate in the second Test, Pant is likely to continue leading the side.
The Indian team will be hoping for a speedy recovery for their captain as they aim to level the series against South Africa in Guwahati. Meanwhile, the focus remains on Gill's well-being, with the BCCI medical team continuing to monitor his progress.
India lost the first Test by 30 runs, marking South Africa's first Test victory in India in 15 years.
