Shubman Gill Injured - Rishabh Pant to lead India in last test against South Africa
India’s captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the must-win second Test against South Africa in Guwahati due to a neck injury suffered in the previous match at Kolkata. Gill’s absence is a major setback as he returns home for further medical assessment, with Rishabh Pant assuming leadership duties and Sai Sudharsan likely to fill the gap in the batting order. Team India definitely has a lot of homework to handle these situation – Shubman Gill injured, India 1-0 down, and South Africa high with confidence.
The BCCI medical team has cited the necessity of rest, prioritising Gill’s long-term fitness as India aims to level the series.
How the Injury Happened
Shubman Gill suffered severe neck spasms while batting on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test, which led to him retiring hurt after scoring just four runs. He was subsequently hospitalized and discharged but continued to experience discomfort, making him unfit for selection in the second Test. Despite traveling to Guwahati with hopes of recovery, the BCCI medical staff advised rest and ruled him out to avoid aggravating the injury.
Video: Watch highlights of Day-2 of the first test between India and South Africa.
Travelling with the squad to Guwahati for the series-decider, the 26-year-old was assessed by the medical team. Ultimately, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that he was not fit to play, and would head back to Mumbai for further evaluation.
With Gill sidelined, wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant has been named as India’s stand-in captain for the second Test in Guwahati. The team now face the challenge of levelling the two-match series while missing their full-time leader and one of their key batters.
Video: Watch what Rishabh Pant had to say about leading India against South Africa in the final test
The injury not only affects the Test match but raises doubts about Gill’s availability for the upcoming three-ODI series beginning November 30.
What this means for Team India
India losing their captain right before a must-win Test is a big hit to both momentum and confidence. His absence forces a quick reshuffle in the batting order and a fresh set of leadership duties for the team.
The medical call also shows how seriously the management is taking player workload and long-term health. Meanwhile, South Africa will see this as a chance to push for the series win against a slightly unsettled Indian side.
