Indian captain Shubman Gill had travelled to Guwahati hoping that he might recover from the neck spasm that ruled him out of the Kolkata Test. But the injury turned out to be more severe than it looked.
He couldn’t make it to the second game against South Africa and was released from the squad, handing the leadership responsibilities to his deputy, Rishabh Pant.
As the selectors look forward to picking the squad for the subsequent ODI series, starting November 30, it has been learned that Gill will miss the 3-match series as well.
According to PTI, Gill’s injury isn’t limited to neck spasm and will require extensive rest, prompting the team management to avoid any risk of rushing him back. He is currently in Mumbai undergoing medical tests, including an MRI, to determine the extent of the damage.
“All tests are being done to ascertain whether it is a muscular injury or a nerve-related niggle that requires more rest. As of now, selectors will be hoping he gets fit for the South Africa T20Is,” a source said.
It is learnt that Gill consulted Mumbai-based spinal injury specialist Dr Abhay Nene, and the findings of the medical report have been forwarded to chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
“Gill has been given an injection to alleviate his symptoms and will need a period of rest before starting rehab, training and skill work. There is every chance he could also be doubtful for the T20I series,” the BCCI source said.
The report further stated that Gill’s chances of playing the subsequent T20I series versus the Proteas, from December 9, also look bleak.
Who will lead in Gill’s Absence?
On the captaincy front, Pant is a strong contender as he is currently leading India in the second Test, but he has played only one 50-over match in the past year. Rahul, on the other hand, remains the first-choice keeper.
For a one-off series, Rahul appears a more feasible option, especially with deputy Shreyas Iyer likely to need two more months to recover from his spleen injury sustained in Australia.
On the team front, Yashasvi Jaiswal may open alongside Rohit Sharma, while Abhishek Sharma — a regular in India A’s List A set-up — could serve as reserve opener for the ODI series starting November 30 in Ranchi.
