In a significant development for Indian cricket, Shubman Gill has been declared unavailable for the second Test against South Africa, scheduled for November 22 in Guwahati. Vice-captain Rishabh Pant will therefore lead the Men in Blue in this pivotal Freedom Trophy 2025 fixture. Gill’s injury, a neck issue, occurred during the first Test in Kolkata when he retired hurt after facing just three balls in the first innings. He was subsequently hospitalized for a thorough medical evaluation and did not resume batting, effectively ruling him out of the remainder of the match.
Reports suggest that Gill’s fitness concerns may extend beyond the Test series, with his participation in the following ODI leg also in doubt. The Indian team management is reportedly prioritizing a full recovery to safeguard him against further injury, especially given the demanding international cricket calendar. Resting him from the ODIs would be a strategic move to ensure his readiness for future tours and tournaments. Should Gill miss the Guwahati Test, Rishabh Pant will continue at the helm as India aims to bounce back from their 30-run loss in the opening Test, where they were dismissed for 93 in their chase.
The incident that led to Gill’s injury involved an apparent whiplash effect while playing a stroke. Post-match, he was taken to the hospital for observation. While initial medical reports were encouraging, he was later seen wearing a neck brace at the airport, indicating a need for caution. The BCCI confirmed that Gill would travel with the squad to Guwahati and his availability would be a game-time decision based on his recovery. The addition of fast-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy to the squad provides depth, and he could be in line for a debut if Gill is unavailable.