India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, said the team management will have to look into how captain Shubman Gill developed the neck stiffness that led to him retiring hurt. He played down any major fitness concerns, calling the situation an unfortunate one rather than something worrying. However, the opener was also taken to a Kolkata hospital for medical checkups.
Day 2 of the first Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday, November 15, was dominated by the bowlers. Starting the day at 37/1, India were bowled out for 189 in 62.2 overs. The home side then hit back strongly, leaving South Africa struggling at 93/7 by stumps. The visitors currently hold a narrow 63-run advantage.
Earlier, Shubman Gill had to walk off with just four runs to his name after facing only three deliveries, and he did not return to bat again. Speaking to the media after the day’s play, Morkel shared a brief update on the skipper’s condition. He said:
“I think we first need to determine how he got neck stiffness, maybe just a bad night’s sleep. I don’t think we can put it down to the load. Shubman is a very fit guy, he looks after himself very well, so it’s just unfortunate this morning that he woke up with a stiff neck and that carried him into the day, which was crucial for us.”
“Another sort of partnership with him batting around was going to be needed for us at the time and, you know, just bad timing,” Morkel added.
Morkel Praises Bold Move To Send Sundar At No. 3
During the press conference, Morne Morkel backed India’s choice to promote all-rounder Washington Sundar to the No. 3 spot. Addressing the widely discussed decision, he described it as a courageous move and explained:
“I think he did really well. Washington has been brilliant for us with the bat every time he got the opportunity, and what a nice sort of opportunity for him in this game to go at three and use him while he is in good form at the moment and hitting the ball well.”
“I also think it allows us certain options lower down in the order. I thought it was a brave call to make but, you know, also a quality player that’s playing good cricket at the moment, so why not give him that opportunity?” the 41-year-old added.
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