Shubman Gill skipped the first session of practice with the India national cricket team ahead of their second Test versus South Africa national cricket team, raising serious doubts about his participation.
Sources revealed that Gill remains sidelined due to a neck complaint that forced him out of the opening Test in Kolkata. The team’s medical staff is reportedly continuing evaluations, but the absence from the practice session is a clear sign his fitness is in question.
Unlikely to Travel for Second Test
Further reports suggest Gill will likely not travel with the squad to Guwahati for the second match. According to the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), he has been advised rest and wearing a cervical collar for at least three to four days, and has been specifically discouraged from flying.
The CAB sources go so far as to say he is not scheduled to join the team’s travel for the Test. This absence creates a vacuum at the top of India’s batting order and raises questions over leadership continuity — Gill is the Test captain.
Implications for India’s Line-up
Gill’s unavailability will force the selectors and team management to adjust both tactically and structurally. With India already defeated in the first Test after chasing 124 and falling well short, the loss of their skipper and top-order batter will complicate plans.
Backup options will need to be considered, and the team might look to reshuffle both batting positions and the captaincy role. Given the critical nature of the upcoming match and the workload on the players, India will likely tread carefully rather than rush Gill back before he is fully fit.
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