Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that Shubman Gill is fully fit for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, scheduled from December 9 to 19. India’s 15-member squad for the series was announced on December 3. Although Gill was named in the squad, the BCCI had stated that his participation would depend on a fitness clearance.
Following India’s 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa on December 6, Gautam Gambhir gave a major update on Gill’s fitness, telling the media (via ESPNcricinfo):
“Yes, Shubhman is ready to start. That’s why he has been selected. And obviously he is fit and fine, hungry to go.”
Shubman Gill sustained a neck injury while batting in the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata last month. Although he participated in fielding during the Proteas’ first innings, he retired hurt after facing just three deliveries. The 26-year-old was later ruled out of the second Test in Guwahati, leading to Rishabh Pant taking over the captaincy. India went on to lose the match by 408 runs, thereby losing the series 2-0.
Hardik Pandya Joins Shubman Gill In Returning For T20I Series Against South Africa
Alongside Shubman Gill’s return for the T20Is, India received more encouraging news as experienced all-rounder Hardik Pandya was also recalled. Pandya had been sidelined from international cricket after picking up a minor injury during the Super Four clash against Sri Lanka in the 2025 Asia Cup in Dubai, causing him to miss the final against Pakistan at the same venue.
He recently showcased his form and fitness in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, scoring an unbeaten 77 off 42 balls for Baroda against Punjab. His innings included seven fours and four sixes, helping Baroda chase 223 in 19.1 overs in Hyderabad. Pandya also contributed with the ball, taking 1-52 in four overs. While he earned a place back in the T20I squad, Rinku Singh was left out.
The India-South Africa T20I series kicks off in Cuttack on December 9, followed by matches in New Chandigarh (December 11), Dharamsala (December 14), Lucknow (December 17), and Ahmedabad (December 19). Suryakumar Yadav will captain the Men in Blue, with Gill continuing as vice-captain.
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