IND vs SA: Will Shubman Gill play 2nd test? India batting coach gives massive update

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

India suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of South Africa in Kolkata, where they failed to chase down a target of 124 runs and were bowled out for just 93 runs. Indian captain Shubman Gill didn’t bat in the chase as he got retired hurt during the first innings when he was batting at four runs.

But, if he would have batted, the result would have been a different. Gill sustained an injury to his neck while playing a sweep shot off Simon Harmer and played only three deliveries in the game. Him not batting in the game was one of the key reasons why India lost the game.

But the question is, will he be fit in time for the second test? The second and final test between the two sides is scheduled to be played from November 22 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

IND vs SA: “Shubman Gill is definitely recovering really “well”—Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak

The second test will be very important for India as another defeat can raise more questions on the management. Moreover, they will also slip down in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 points table if they lose, which will later hamper their chances on qualifying for the final. Hence, Gill’s availability can be a massive boost for the hosts.

Prior to the second test in Guwahati, Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak provided an update on the Indian captain.

In a discussion with media, Kotak said, “He is definitely recovering well — I met him yesterday. Decision will be taken tomorrow evening. Physio and doctors will take a call. Even if he is recovered, he shouldn’t get the spasm again during play. That is important.“

Notably, Gill is the leading run scorer in the ongoing WTC 2025-27. He has scored 950 runs in 14 innings at an average of 79.16 with five centuries. Kotak himself reckons that Gill’s absence was a key reason for India’s downfall in Kolkata.

He said, “Last game nobody discussed this — if Shubman could have batted both innings, the 30 runs may not have mattered. If he had batted first innings and had one partnership, with a 100-run lead, we would’ve been fine.”

However, the Indian coach is confident that India will be ready even if Gill can’t participate in the second test as well. He said that the team has good replacements, and they are ready for any situation going forward.

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