Shubman Gill Ruled Out of Second India vs South Africa Test

India’s top-order batter Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati due to a persistent neck injury. The match is set to begin on Saturday, and with Gill unavailable, Rishabh Pant will lead India as captain, having stepped in during the Kolkata Test after Gill retired hurt.

Gill had travelled to Guwahati on November 19 after being under observation in a Kolkata hospital. However, the BCCI confirmed on Friday morning that he will not participate in the game. The board also stated that Gill will return to Mumbai for further assessment of his injury. Experts have warned that playing too soon could risk further neck spasms, and the player has been advised additional rest.

This development raises questions about Gill’s availability for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, starting on November 30. The selection for the ODI squad is expected to be announced on November 23. With no official replacement named yet, India’s team management will have to decide between B Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, or Nitish Kumar Reddy to fill the vacant spot in the lineup.

Gill’s injury first occurred during the Kolkata Test, where he faced only three balls in India’s first innings before retiring hurt. On the morning of the third day, the BCCI announced that he would take no further part in the match. India eventually lost the Test by 30 runs after being bowled out for 93 while chasing 124 on a pitch with uneven bounce. This is not Gill’s first neck-related issue, as he had previously missed a Test against New Zealand in October 2024 due to a similar spasm.

Speaking before the team’s departure to Guwahati, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak emphasised that the team would not risk Gill’s health. “He is definitely recovering well. The final decision will be made tomorrow evening by the physios and doctors. Even if he is fully recovered, we cannot risk another spasm during the match,” Kotak said.

Gill’s absence is a significant blow to India’s batting order. Known for his consistent performances in both Tests and limited-overs cricket, he has been a key figure in the team. With the second Test just days away, the team management will have to quickly finalise the replacement to ensure balance in the squad.

Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who captained India in Kolkata after Gill left the field, will take full responsibility for leading the team in Guwahati. His leadership will be crucial in navigating the team through a challenging series against a strong South African side. The Indian squad will also need to manage the batting order carefully to compensate for the loss of Gill’s experience and stability at the top of the innings.

Fans and cricket experts alike are closely watching the situation, as Gill’s recovery and subsequent participation in the ODI series could be pivotal for India’s success against South Africa in the upcoming matches.