Team India captain Shubman Gill is now recovering from a neck problem in the team hotel in Kolkata after being discharged from the hospital. The young batsman may travel with the team to Guwahati for the second Test, but his availability remains uncertain, with the BCCI medical staff monitoring his recovery.
Gill walked off the field with neck cramps after facing three balls in the first innings. Vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant led the national team for the remainder of the match. On Sunday, November 16, the Men in Blue suffered a 30-run defeat to the Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Shubman Gill forced to retire hurt after facing only three balls due to neck cramps
Shubman Gill had to retire hurt due to neck cramps after facing only three balls in the first innings. The physio reached the field and Gill left wearing a cervical collar as a precaution. He was later taken to a private hospital for further examination.
The Punjab-born batsman was admitted after the end of the second day and was reportedly discharged from Kolkata’s Woodlands Hospital the next day. However, he did not participate in further tests after suffering an injury.
Gill’s absence proved to be a big blow for India during the chase of 124 runs. The home team played the batsmen short on a difficult pitch, struggled to build partnerships and were all out for just 93 runs on the third day. The Men in Blue gave the Proteas a 0-1 lead in the series.
Team India is ready to fly to Guwahati on Wednesday
According to a report in Times of India, Shubman Gill was discharged from the hospital on Sunday. He was admitted for scans and MRI and kept under observation overnight. The right-handed batsman is showing encouraging signs of recovery.
The first Test against South Africa ended within three days and the Indian team is stuck in Kolkata. He is due to have an optional training session at Eden Gardens on Tuesday.
As per the original travel plan, the team is scheduled to fly to Guwahati on Wednesday. There is a real possibility that Gill could travel with the team on that flight. If he is not ready on time, he can travel on Thursday also. The 26-year-old batsman is being closely monitored by the BCCI medical team.
Shubman Gill’s participation remains uncertain with 50-50 chances
Shubman Gill’s participation in the next test is uncertain. The team management considers their chances to be 50-50, and a final decision is expected in the coming days. Doctors have advised him rest and he is being constantly monitored.
If Gill fails to recover, Rishabh Pant will captain India in the upcoming match. The match between India and South Africa is likely to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati from Saturday, November 22.
“However, Gill’s participation is not certain at this stage. It is a 50-50 call that will be taken in the next few days. Doctors have advised him to take rest for now and he is under observation,” the report said.
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