Shubman Gill will miss the second Test against South Africa. He injured his neck during the first Test in Kolkata. After sweeping a ball to the boundary, he felt sharp pain and held his neck. He left the field retired hurt and did not bat again. He also missed India’s chase of 124. Doctors advised precautionary scans.
Gill improved after discharge, yet further tests ruled him out of the Guwahati Test.
BCCI Shares Update
The BCCI said he is “responding well” and will travel with the team. He reached Guwahati on Wednesday. He appeared without any neck support.
He will begin light neck exercises on Thursday. His full recovery may take a week. Therefore, he is likely to return for the ODI series starting on November 30.
Pant Takes Charge, Sai Sudharsan in Line
With Gill unavailable, Rishabh Pant will captain India. Pant stepped in during the Kolkata Test as well.
Sai Sudharsan is expected to enter the XI. He trained on Tuesday along with Dhruv Jurel, Akash Deep, Ravindra Jadeja, and Devdutt Padikkal. His recent form makes him a strong choice.
India in a Must-Win Spot
India trail 0–1 in the two-match series. They lost the first Test by 30 runs. Because of this, India must win in Guwahati to level the series. Pant’s leadership will matter. The team now needs a fresh and focused approach.
Early Start for All Five Days
The Guwahati Test will start at 9 a.m. every day. This is a first in Test cricket. The tea break will also come before lunch. This unusual timing creates a different rhythm for both sides.
India Aim to Bounce Back
India will rely on Pant’s intent and energy. The team will try to regroup without their captain. A strong start can shift momentum. With a simple plan and steady focus, India hope to level the series.
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