India captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck strain during the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, prompting the BCCI to make a crucial squad decision. On Day 2, after playing an aggressive sweep shot for a boundary, Gill experienced a neck spasm and had to retire hurt shortly after facing just three balls. Medical staff attended to him immediately, and he was taken to a hospital for further examination and observation, with a cervical collar supporting his neck.

Shubman Gill doubtful for second Test against South Africa

The BCCI confirmed that Gill would not take any further part in the remainder of the first Test due to the injury. Despite medical evaluations and continued monitoring, the injury’s severity forced the team to reconsider the squad composition.

Gill’s absence was a significant blow for India, as he had been leading the batting effort before the injury. His unavailability left a gap in the top order for the remainder of the contest, and he is doubtful for the second Test in Guwahati, which starts Saturday.

BCCI adds Gill’s backup for Guwahati Test

Gill is suffering from acute neck pain and has been advised three to four days of rest, including avoiding flights and missing Tuesday’s optional training session in Kolkata. According to Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) official, he needs to keep wearing a cervical collar.

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“He [Gill] has acute neck pain, and we’re not allowed to further go to details about the injury. He has to keep continuing wearing the c,” the CAB source told news agency PTI. “He has been advised three-four days rest and not to take flight.

As a backup, BCCI has asked all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy to join the team ahead of the Guwahati Test, ensuring depth and flexibility in both batting and bowling departments.

For the unversed, India lost the first Test of the two-match series at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens by 30 runs.

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