IND vs SA: Will Shubman Gill play the second test in Guwahati? Gautam Gambhir gives crucial update

Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury during the first IND vs SA test in Kolkata.

Indian Cricket Team head coach Gautam Gambhir has provided a crucial update on captain Shubman Gill’s availability for the second test against South Africa Cricket Team. The Indian captain sustained a neck spasm while batting in first innings of the opening test between India and South Africa at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, which the visitors won by 30 runs.

On day 2 of the match, Gill could only face three balls before sustaining a severe pain in his neck, which triggered while scoring a boundary off Simon Harmer. After the incident, he was unable to move his neck and left the field midway. Later, he did not return to bat and was sent to a hospital for further scans.

On Sunday (November 16) morning, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that Gill was ruled out of the first test due to a neck injury and will not bat in the second innings. The BCCI also mentioned that he is under observation and is being monitored by the medical team. In Gill’s absence, vice-captain Rishabh Pant took charge of the side in the clash.

Gautam Gambhir gives an update on Shubman Gill’s availability for the Guwahati test

In the post-match press conference after India’s defeat in the first test, Gambhir was asked about Gill’s availability for the next game. He said that the management will take a call in the evening after team physio’s verdict on Gill’s condition.

“He (Gill) is still being assessed. So, let’s see. The physios will take a call today evening and we will take a call,” Gambhir said.

Meanwhile, India suffered a shocking defeat against South Africa in the first test in Kolkata, where they failed to chase a 124-run target. With only 10 batters, India could only reach 93 runs on the board before getting all out against a solid bowling show by South Africa bowlers. Spinner Simon Harmer, who clinched four-wicket hauls in both innings, was adjudged Player of the Match.

With the victory, the visitors lead the two-match series 1-0. The second test will be played from November 22 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, where the hosts will aim for a comeback. If Gill doesn’t get fit in time for the game, Rishabh Pant will lead the side.

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