New Delhi: India’s Test captain Shubman Gill is facing a race against time to be fit for the second Test in Guwahati, with his participation remaining highly uncertain due to a neck injury sustained during the first match in Kolkata. Gill will not travel with the squad on Wednesday, and medical assessments over the next two days will determine whether he can take the field in the upcoming fixture.
The injury occurred on the second day at Eden Gardens, adding to the strain of an intense playing schedule over recent months. His workload had already raised questions, and the latest setback appears to have compounded the issue. Gill has been advised to rest for three days and avoid flying, with medical staff closely monitoring his recovery. Team officials expect a clearer picture by Tuesday after further evaluation.
India are scheduled to fly to Guwahati on Wednesday for the series decider beginning on November 22. The team will hold an optional training session ahead of departure, although Gill is unlikely to participate unless his condition shows significant improvement.
The skipper’s absence in the fourth innings of the first Test proved costly, leaving India one batter short during their unsuccessful chase of 124. He had earlier retired hurt on four after facing just three balls and was later taken to the hospital for scans.
Should Gill be ruled out, India are considering B Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal as potential replacements. Sudharsan has shown promising form, including a strong 87 against the West Indies in Delhi, though his recent India A outings against South Africa A produced modest returns. Padikkal also remains in contention as the team weighs its options ahead of the must-win contest.
With the final Test approaching, India’s preparation now hinges on the captain’s recovery, making the next 48 hours crucial to determining the team’s balance and strategy for the series finale.
