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Gill To Travel With Team To Guwahati; Participation In 2nd Test Remains Uncertain: Reports
Shubman Gill’s availability for the Guwahati Test is uncertain after a neck injury
India captain Shubman Gill is likely to travel with the national team to Guwahati on November 19, two days after being discharged from a Kolkata hospital where he was treated for the neck injury he sustained during the first Test against South Africa. Although he is expected to make the trip with the squad, as per reports in India Today, his participation in the second Test on November 22 remains doubtful.
Gill was forced to leave the field on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test after appearing to injure his neck while attempting a slog sweep against Simon Harmer. He immediately showed signs of discomfort, clutched his neck, and retired hurt after facing just three deliveries.
Following the incident, the BCCI confirmed that Gill was suffering from a neck spasm and placed him under the supervision of the medical team. The board stated that a final call on his involvement in the remainder of the series would depend on how he responded to treatment.
As a precautionary measure, Gill was admitted to a Kolkata hospital after the close of play, where he underwent scans and further evaluation. He was later discharged but advised rest, leading to his absence from the remainder of the first Test.
India bowling coach Morne Morkel downplayed concerns that workload may have contributed to the injury. “Maybe just a bad night’s sleep… I don’t think we can put it down to the load,” Morkel said, calling the situation “just unfortunate.” He also stressed that Gill is “a very fit guy” who “looks after himself very well.”
Eyewitness accounts reported that Gill was taken to the ambulance, and additionally, NDTV reported that a specialised medical team, including a neurologist and a critical care expert, had been assembled to monitor his recovery closely.
With Gill unavailable for the remainder of the match, Rishabh Pant assumed leadership duties. India’s management is expected to reassess Gill’s condition after the team reaches Guwahati, though early indications suggest he may struggle to be ready in time for the second Test.