India are staring at a significant setback ahead of the second Test against South Africa, with captain Shubman Gill likely to be ruled out despite his strong desire to prove his fitness.
A report in The Times of India suggests that while Gill was determined to make himself available, the team management, overseen by head coach Gautam Gambhir, has opted for a cautious approach and is unwilling to take any chances with his recovery.
Gill, who injured his neck during the opening Test in Kolkata-a match India lost by 30 runs-travelled with the squad to Guwahati in the hope of featuring in the series-deciding encounter starting November 22. Although early signs indicated improvement, the BCCI's medical team has reportedly assessed him as still well
short of the match readiness required to endure a full Test.
The report adds that Gill was eager to participate in an extended net session in Guwahati to demonstrate his fitness, but the management is firm about not risking a setback. He needed "at least an hour-long net session" to prove he could bat comfortably, but with that opportunity ruled out, the decision became clearer.
Looking ahead, the team remains optimistic that Gill will recover in time for the ODI series later this month. There is even a possibility that he could be sent home from Guwahati to speed up his rehabilitation, with the BCCI expected to take a call soon.
In Gill's absence, Rishabh Pant-his deputy-will lead India in the crucial fixture. The unavailability of their regular No. 4 batter has also opened up a new set of selection dilemmas. Sai Sudharsan, who narrowly missed out in Kolkata due to the team's combination choices, is now a strong contender to return. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who featured in the opening Test, also remains in the frame.
According to the report, the team is considering accommodating both Sudharsan and Reddy, a move that could result in Axar Patel being left out for this match. With the series on the line, India will now look to regroup quickly and adapt their plans in the absence of their young captain.
