Shubman Gill's Neck Injury Sparks Concern as BCCI Calls Up All-Rounder

Kolkata: The Indian cricket team faces an unexpected setback as Test captain Shubman Gill is sidelined with a neck injury, casting a shadow over the ongoing Test series against South Africa. Gill sustained the injury during the first Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, leading to his hospitalization and subsequent discharge with a cervical collar.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Gill will play no further part in the Kolkata Test and is doubtful for the second Test in Guwahati, scheduled to begin on November 22. A video circulating on social media showed Gill leaving the hospital with a neck brace, assisted by medical personnel, indicating the seriousness of the injury.

Gill's injury occurred on the second day of the Kolkata Test when he felt discomfort in his neck after playing a sweep shot. He was immediately attended to by the team physio but had to retire hurt after scoring just four runs. Initial assessments suggested a neck spasm, but further examinations were conducted at a Kolkata hospital.

According to a PTI report, doctors have advised Gill to rest for three to four days and avoid flying. Consequently, he is unlikely to travel with the team to Guwahati on Wednesday. The medical team is closely monitoring his progress, and a clearer picture of his availability is expected by Tuesday.

The extent of Gill's injury and the recovery timeline remain uncertain. While some reports suggest it's a neck spasm, others indicate a more significant injury. Head coach Gautam Gambhir stated that Gill is still being assessed and that the physios and medical team will determine his fitness for the second Test.

In light of Gill's injury, the BCCI has reportedly summoned an all-rounder to join the Indian Test squad as a precautionary measure. The specific all-rounder has not been named.

Gill's absence is a significant blow to the Indian team, both in terms of leadership and batting prowess. The 26-year-old was appointed as the Test captain for the series against South Africa, marking a new era for the team. His injury has forced India to make adjustments to their playing XI and leadership structure. In Gill's absence, vice-captain Rishabh Pant led the side in South Africa's second innings in the first Test.

The injury also raises concerns about Gill's workload management, as he had previously missed a Test against New Zealand in October 2024 due to a similar neck spasm. The team management will be keen to ensure that he recovers fully and avoids any recurrence of the injury.

As India grapples with Gill's injury, the focus shifts to finding a suitable replacement and strategizing for the second Test against South Africa. The team will hope for a speedy recovery for their captain and look to bounce back from the defeat in the first Test.